The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is set to hold a public meeting on November 18 to investigate the tragic collision between the containership Dali and the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which resulted in six fatalities and highlighted serious weaknesses in U.S. bridge infrastructure. The accident, occurring on March 26, 2024, involved the Singapore-flagged ship losing all electrical power and propulsion as it left Baltimore Harbor, ultimately striking the bridge’s southern pier and causing a catastrophic failure.
Investigators have pinpointed electrical malfunctions as a key factor in the incident. The Dali experienced two significant blackouts just moments before the collision, with the electrical breakers unexpectedly tripping when the vessel was only three ship lengths away. Further inspection revealed issues in the control circuits, with preliminary findings suggesting failures that went undetected prior to the accident.
Additionally, the NTSB reported alarming data regarding the bridge’s safety, revealing that its risk level was nearly 30 times higher than the acceptable threshold defined by safety standards. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized the Maryland Transportation Authority for not conducting recommended assessments that could have alerted them to this elevated risk. The ongoing investigation has also identified a total of 68 bridges nationwide needing urgent assessments for vessel collision risks, including several renowned structures.
In the lead-up to the November meeting, NTSB officials will review critical findings and draft recommendations to enhance bridge safety. The complete final report is expected to be available weeks after the public meeting.
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