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**Image Credit: Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images**
A steel frame from the collapsed Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore now rests atop the Dali ship, which collided with the bridge on Tuesday.
At the scene of the collapsed bridge in Baltimore, resembling a crime scene, authorities restricted access to both individuals and drones on Sunday.
Remnants of the bridge continue to obstruct the Patapsco River, with partially submerged girders still visible next to the large container ship that struck the bridge earlier in the week.
Last week, the bodies of two construction workers who were present on the bridge during the incident were recovered, while efforts are underway to locate four others.
**Keyphrase Focus: Baltimore bodies recovery cleanup**
Efforts to Recover Bodies and Cleanup Operation in Baltimore
Governor Moore emphasized the ongoing priority of finding the remaining four bodies in Baltimore but refrained from providing a specific timeline for their recovery.
He stated, “Our primary focus is to bring solace and closure to the affected families. Due to the intricate nature of the operation, a definite timeline cannot be given.”
Simultaneously, the cleanup crews have initiated a gradual process of removing the debris.
The cleanup operation is described as “unprecedented.”
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must assess the extent of the damage before considering the relocation of the ship, known as Dali. Initial evaluations by Maryland authorities revealed that while the ship’s hull sustained damage, it remains structurally sound, potentially facilitating its future relocation once the debris is cleared.
Lieutenant General Scott Spellmon of the Army Corps of Engineers outlined a three-step plan to commence the clearance of the bridge remnants.
He explained that the channel spans 700 feet in width and 50 feet in depth, obstructed by substantial steel components and concrete at the base. The removal of the steel and concrete is imperative for the cleanup process.
The National Transportation Safety Board reported hazardous materials in some containers, some dislodged. Stabilizing the containers and refloating the vessel are crucial, overseen by the Coast Guard and the shipping company. Removal of 2,900 feet of the bridge’s steel from the riverbed is necessary. Spellmon emphasized the enormity of the task, with continuous 24/7 efforts.
Responders are dismantling the bridge to clear the debris. Governor Moore highlighted the need for heavy machinery to access the channel and remove the bridge, comparable in size to the Eiffel Tower. Describing the operation as highly intricate and unprecedented, Moore stressed the complexity in an NPR interview. Utilizing the East Coast’s largest operational crane, capable of lifting over 1,000 tons, secondary pathways will be created.
Despite the urgency of the operation, safety concerns for responders remain paramount. Governor Moore expressed worries about the challenging conditions faced by divers in pitch darkness. He emphasized the need for bipartisan support to finance the reconstruction. President Biden has emphasized “Baltimore bodies recovery cleanup” as the primary focus keyphrase for this project.
Impact of Baltimore Bridge Collapse on Economy and Insurance Costs
After the Baltimore bridge collapse, the federal government pledged to fund the rebuilding of the bridge, sparking a debate among Republicans on the matter. Maryland Senator Moore emphasized the need for bipartisan support to revive the economy, highlighting the widespread impact of the disaster beyond Maryland.
According to Bruce Carnegie-Brown, chair of Lloyd’s of London, the Baltimore bridge crash is considered the largest marine insured loss in history. The estimated cost of rebuilding the bridge ranges from $400 million to $1 billion, with additional expenses driven by insurance costs, potentially reaching up to $4 billion in insurance claims.
Experts predict that a significant portion of the expenses will be attributed to business interruption, affecting ships stuck in port, delayed goods transportation, and cargo owners seeking insurance claims for financial losses.
Rebuilding Efforts and Insurance Claims Post Baltimore Bridge Collapse
The reconstruction of the Baltimore bridge is crucial for restoring economic activities and ensuring smooth transportation of goods. The insurance industry is bracing for substantial claims due to the extensive damage caused by the collapse.
As the cleanup and recovery operations progress, the focus remains on mitigating financial losses for businesses and individuals impacted by the bridge disaster. The aftermath of the Baltimore bridge collapse underscores the importance of prompt action and comprehensive insurance coverage to address the widespread repercussions of such incidents.
Compensation payments may also be necessary due to the fatalities and injuries.
She mentioned that although Lloyd’s could face the most significant impact, other insurance firms, including those in the U.S., Bermuda, and reinsurers providing coverage to insurers, will also experience pressure.
