Salvage Operations Continue in Wake of Key Bridge Collapse

BALTIMORE, MD News (4/15/2024) – Efforts to address the aftermath of the Key Bridge incident in Baltimore have remained steadfast as salvage operations progress steadily. The Unified Command overseeing the operation has provided updates on the ongoing removal of containers from the M/V Dali and the clearance of bridge wreckage at the site.

Salvage teams have been diligently working to extract containers from the M/V Dali, a crucial step in gaining access to the section of the Key Bridge resting atop the vessel. As of April 11, approximately 38 containers have been successfully removed. This process is integral to the eventual reopening of the Fort McHenry Channel, as it alleviates weight from the ship and facilitates the removal of bridge sections obstructing its movement.

Simultaneously, efforts to clear debris from the Patapsco River have been ongoing. Salvage crews have been tasked with removing wreckage and debris, including submerged portions of the collapsed bridge. Notable progress has been made, with sections of the bridge being dismantled and debris transported for processing and recycling at Sparrows Point, Maryland.

Despite these advancements, marine traffic in the area remains limited. However, since the establishment of temporary alternate channels, 69 vessels have successfully transited through, underscoring the ongoing commitment to maintaining essential maritime operations amidst the recovery efforts.

Colonel Estee Pinchasin, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, emphasized the collective efforts of local, state, federal, and community responders in achieving significant progress towards reopening the deep draft channel. The Unified Command remains dedicated to the safe and efficient removal of debris and wreckage from the federal channel and waterway.

To ensure safety around the incident site, a maritime Safety Zone with a radius of 2000 yards has been maintained, along with a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) extending two nautical miles from the center of the bridge and up to 1500 feet above ground level. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strictly prohibited the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS/drones) within this zone, with severe penalties for violations.

Mariners are urged to stay informed through the Broadcast Notice to Mariners (BNM) issued via VHF-FM marine channel 16. Additionally, a dedicated website and Debris Reporting Hotline have been established to provide the public with up-to-date information and channels for reporting any encountered debris from the incident.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors.

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