Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced plans to engage with members of Congress to seek support for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which has obstructed the main shipping channel at Baltimore's port for almost two weeks. Governor Moore emphasized the non-partisan nature of the issue, highlighting the importance of backing a vital economic hub that employs tens of thousands of individuals.
As the legislative session in Maryland drew to a close, a bill permitting the utilization of the state's rainy day fund to aid port workers was passed and is awaiting the governor's signature. The emergency legislation is set to be signed into effect promptly.
The bridge collapse occurred on March 26 when the cargo ship Dali collided with it after experiencing power failure post-departure from Baltimore. Tragically, six workers, hailing from various countries, are presumed to have lost their lives in the incident. Recovery efforts are ongoing to locate the missing workers and provide closure to their families.
Temporary alternative channels have been established, with plans to open a limited-access channel for specific vessels by the end of April. Authorities aim to restore full capacity to Baltimore's port by the end of May, with progress being made in debris removal and channel reopening.
Governor Moore expressed optimism regarding the swift development in reopening channels, noting the removal of significant amounts of debris from the Patapsco River. Salvage divers and cranes are working diligently to clear the waterway, with efforts focused on dismantling sections of the bridge obstructing the ship's movement.
