Cargo Ship Collides with Key Bridge in Baltimore: Crew Safe, Emergency Declared

In the early hours of March 26, a cargo ship carrying a crew of 22 Indians collided with a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.

The Singapore-based Synergy Marine Group, the charter manager of the cargo ship, confirmed that all crew members were safe, and there were no casualties.

Reports indicate that the ship struck a column of the bridge, causing it to fall into the water. Rescue operations are ongoing, and both city and state officials have declared a state of emergency in response to the incident.

The shipping company issued a statement regarding the collision, stating, “Owners and managers of the Singapore-flagged container ship ‘DALI’ (IMO 9697428) report that the vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore whilst under pilotage with two pilots onboard, at approximately 01:30 local time on 26th March.”

The statement also confirmed that all crew members, including the two pilots, were safe, with no injuries or pollution reported. The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation, but initial findings suggest that the crew issued a distress call, indicating a loss of power and propulsion before the collision.

The company stated that it has informed the US Coast Guard and local officials and is fully cooperating with government agencies. Details about the ship’s capacity were also provided, noting it as a 10,000 TEU vessel with 4,679 TEU onboard, outbound from Baltimore to Colombo.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore mentioned on social media platform X that the ship had lost power before the collision. He stated that his office is in communication with the US Transportation secretary and fire emergency personnel to coordinate response efforts.

Authorities at the Patapsco River Baltimore Port have suspended vessel traffic until further notice, stating, “At this time, we do not know how long vessel traffic will be suspended. As soon as that is determined, we will provide an update.”

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott declared a local state of emergency following the collapse of the Key Bridge. He assured the public that resources were being mobilized swiftly to address the crisis and ensure community safety and well-being.