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The Ongoing Ordeal of Crew Members on Cargo Ship Dali
It has been approximately seven weeks since the tragic collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. Despite efforts to dislodge the cargo ship Dali from the debris that fell upon it, the vessel has finally been freed. However, the aftermath of this disaster has left 21 sailors from India and Sri Lanka stranded on board the ship, facing numerous challenges.
Challenges Faced by the Crew
According to reports, the sailors are unable to leave the ship due to visa restrictions, a lack of shore passes, and ongoing investigations by the FBI and National Transportation Safety Board. These constraints have compelled the crew to continue operating the ship amidst difficult circumstances.
Over the past two months, the sailors have encountered harrowing experiences, including the collapse of a bridge onto their vessel, recovery of bodies from the Patapsco River, and a controlled explosion near the ship. Despite these traumatic events, the crew has persevered in maintaining the operation of the cargo vessel.
A Sad Situation on Board
The crew members, confined within the ship’s hull, have had their mobile phones confiscated as part of an FBI investigation. The crew has faced financial difficulties, being unable to pay bills or send money home to their families. Although they were provided with SIM cards and burner phones, many lack contact information.
Reports indicate that crew morale has significantly declined, with crew members experiencing emotional distress. The crew has received food supplies from authorities and care packages from community groups to alleviate their situation.
Technical Malfunctions and Uncertain Future
A preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board revealed that electrical blackouts disabled equipment on the ship prior to the incident. Despite efforts to rectify these issues, concerns remain regarding potential personal accountability for the disaster.
The management company of the Dali has been unable to provide a timeline for the crew members to disembark. Once the ship is fully refloated, it will be towed to a Baltimore port for repairs. The crew is expected to remain on board for an indefinite period during this process.
The situation faced by the crew members of the cargo ship Dali highlights the challenges and uncertainties experienced by maritime workers in the aftermath of a tragic incident. Their resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of seafarers worldwide.
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