The container vessel Dali, operating under a Singaporean flag and chartered by Maersk, collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, USA, causing it to collapse. The incident occurred early in the morning on March 26, the vessel, which is part of the 2M alliance's TP12/Empire service, involving other carriers like MSC and ZIM. The bridge's collapse resulted in people and vehicles falling into the Patapsco River, prompting emergency response and rescue operations.
Maersk confirmed that the Dali, managed by Synergy Group, was under its charter and was carrying its customers' cargo at the time of the accident. While no Maersk crew were on board, the company is keeping track of the ongoing investigations and is committed to updating its customers. The incident has led to a mass casualty situation, with efforts focused on rescuing individuals who ended up in the river following the bridge collapse.
The bridge disaster has significant implications for the Port of Baltimore, affecting access to container and other terminals. In 2023, the terminals managed 1.1 million TEU, and with the bridge out of commission, this traffic must be redirected to alternative ports, causing logistical challenges. Analysts highlight the broader impact on maritime and local traffic, with merchant vessels now stuck in the port and ongoing adjustments needed for the rerouting of goods and services in the area.
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United States