Indian crew remains on ship that collided with Baltimore Bridge
In March this year, Baltimore’s iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed following a collision with the MV Dali. The ill-fated vessel still holds 20 Indian and one Sri Lankan crew members on board, with their return home remaining uncertain. On Monday, a controlled explosion rocked the ship, but the crew members were forced to stay on board.
A BBC report revealed that the crew is unable to leave the damaged vessel due to visa restrictions and the lack of required shore passes. Additionally, ongoing investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FBI have contributed to their prolonged stay, now extending seven weeks post-accident.
US Coast Guard Admiral Shannon Gilreath stated that the crew had to stay below deck with a fire crew ready when the controlled explosion dismantled the damaged bridge. He emphasized that the crew is essential for keeping the ship operational and are the best responders on board.
Joshua Messick, executive director of the Baltimore International Seafarers’ Center, a non-profit protecting mariners’ rights, has maintained contact with the crew since the late March accident. The mostly married crew members, who have children in India, had their phones seized by investigating agencies, cutting off communication with their families. They were unable to conduct online banking or access personal data, leaving them isolated.
Following pressure from advocacy groups, investigators provided SIM cards and temporary phones to the crew, though internet access remains restricted. Meanwhile, community groups and individuals have sent care packages, including Indian snacks and handmade quilts, to the crew.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in Delhi confirmed that the Indian embassy in Washington is in close touch with the crew and local authorities. Last week, US authorities began interviewing personnel on board the Dali. The Synergy Group reported that the NTSB collected documents and other evidence from the vessel.
Grace Ocean and Synergy confirmed the safety of all crew members and two pilots, with one minor injury treated and discharged from the hospital.
The Baltimore bridge collapse resulted in six presumed deaths among a construction crew working on the bridge. Divers recovered two bodies from a submerged pickup truck, with four victims still missing. US President Joe Biden acknowledged the crew’s alert about losing control of the vessel, which led to the bridge’s closure before the collision, undoubtedly saving lives.
