Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Burundi Times
Published on 2024-03-27 09:13:50
At least six people were unaccounted for and presumed dead after a tragic incident occurred on Tuesday morning, when a large cargo ship crashed into a pillar of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse. The incident resulted in a total of eight workers falling into the Patapsco River below, who were reportedly fixing potholes on the bridge at the time of the accident. While two individuals were successfully rescued, the remaining six workers are still missing. A senior executive from the company employing the workers stated that the missing men are presumed dead, as reported by the Associated Press.
In response to the devastating incident, the Coast Guard announced the suspension of search and rescue efforts for the six missing individuals at 7:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday after the bridge collapse. However, authorities have assured that they plan to resume recovery operations on the following day. Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, attributing the crash to an accident and ruling out any possibility of a terrorist attack based on the available evidence.
President Biden expressed his intention to visit Baltimore promptly and emphasized that the federal government should take responsibility for rebuilding the bridge. He highlighted the importance of the Port of Baltimore, which ceased vessel traffic due to the collapse and supports approximately 15,000 jobs. The 1.6-mile long bridge, named after the poet Francis Scott Key who penned “The Star-Spangled Banner,” serves as a vital connection for East Coast shipping and serves as the primary entryway to the port—the largest in the U.S. for handling specialized cargo such as trucks, tractors, and trailers.
The tragic incident has not only led to loss of life but has also raised concerns about the safety of infrastructure and the need for enhanced preventive measures. The collapse of a key bridge like the Francis Scott Key Bridge underscores the importance of prioritizing regular maintenance and inspections to prevent such catastrophic events in the future. As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, authorities and officials are focusing on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by the incident.
The community in Baltimore is mourning the loss of lives and coming together to support the families of the missing individuals. As the recovery efforts continue, the resilience and solidarity of the people in the face of tragedy are evident. The rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will not only be a physical restoration project but also a symbol of strength and unity in the aftermath of a devastating event.
Read the original article on Burundi Times
