Massive crane arrives in Baltimore to remove debris after bridge collapse.
A crane capable of lifting 1000 tons has reached Baltimore port to begin clearing the wreckage of the collapsed Francis Scott Key bridge. The span linking the city’s industrial area came down earlier this week after a giant container ship named Dali, unable to steer without power, rammed into a support pillar.
Six construction workers repairing the bridge at that time are still missing and presumed dead, with divers recovering two bodies so far.
As rescuers search for the remaining four immigrants from Latin America trapped below, Maryland governor Wes Moore has called their recovery the top priority now.
The crane arrived late on Thursday and is expected to start hauling debris on Saturday to free the huge vessel bearing thousands of containers, weighed down by the fallen bridge.
A second crane is also reaching to assist the complex operation, even as officials assess damage caused to the critical infrastructure used by shipping and transport sectors.
The US government immediately sanctioned $60 million to clear the site and rebuild the bridge. Lawmakers are also seeking to financially support some 15,000 port workers affected.
As the massive salvage mission gets underway at the key Atlantic port, the hopes of finding the last missing men alive seem to be fading with each passing day.
