Baltimore: The last part of Francis Scott Key's collapsed bridge removed

On Monday afternoon, in Baltimore, the key phase of the removal of the Francis Scott Key bridge ended, during which the last part of the collapsed grid was removed from the beak of the container ship Dali. The use of specialized cutting methods and explosives enabled rapid and safe operation.

In Baltimore, the key stage of bridge removal was successfully completed. On Monday, despite earlier delays due to adverse weather conditions, the performers entered the final stage of the operation. With precisely placed explosives, a "precision cut" of the grid was made, allowing it to be safely removed from the waters of the Patapsco River.

The operation, carried out under the supervision of the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Naval Diving and Rescue Inspectorate, was conducted with the highest safety standards. The Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath team (USCG) and Colonel Estee S. Pinchasin (USACE) used additional precautions, including the placement of a "water curtain" on the bow of the Dala ship, minimising the risk of fire.

A significant aspect of this operation was the use of modern technology and methods that enabled accurate and controlled separation of individual segments of the bridge. According to Colonel Pinchasin, the charges used were small but effective, which ensured a minimum risk to the environment and the aquatic ecosystem.

The process of removing the wreck of the bridge has continued since the end of March, when the first elements of the structure were secured and removed from the crash site. Commercial performers used a giant crane with a gripper to clean Baltimore's water from the remains of the grid using a piece by piece.

This operation not only restored the full functionality of the federal channel, guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of shipping on the Patapsco River, but also confirmed the effectiveness and precision of strategic planning. As Governor Wes Moore noted, even the initial difficulties did not stop the team from achieving success.

Read about first day of the Baltimore disaster: Container ship causes Key Bridge collapse

In the face of the disaster that affected the city of Baltimore, the reaction of the city and the federal government showed determination in crisis management. Although work on the new Colgate Creek Bridge has not yet begun, the city's authorities are working intensively to launch the project as soon as possible. The new bridge aims not only to increase operational functionality, but also to secure the durability and efficiency of the transport system in the region. These activities are a key element of Baltimore's infrastructure strategy to strengthen the economy and improve communication security.

Wide-ranging efforts to restore the economy and infrastructure, including support for port workers and local businesses, show commitment to the long-term strengthening of the Baltimore economy and the whole region. These efforts not only respond to current needs, but also shape the foundations for the region's future development and economic resilience.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz