The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore was destroyed in a disaster involving a cargo ship named the Dali, which struck the bridge and caused it to collapse. The 22 crew members from India aboard the ship have been thrust into the spotlight since the accident, as they work to keep the ship operable and answer questions from officials investigating the tragedy. The crew members are likely experiencing a sense of responsibility for the disaster, despite their swift mayday call that helped prevent further loss of life. The crew members are now faced with an uncertain future as the ship remains stuck in the Port of Baltimore, awaiting clearance to be removed from the wreckage.
The crew members aboard the Dali are currently working to maintain the ship in a similar fashion to when they were at sea, despite being immobilized by the accident. They have ample supplies of food, water, and fuel to keep the generators running, but there is no exact timeline for when the ship may be extracted from the wreckage. The crew members may potentially be swapped out once investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Coast Guard are completed, in order to allow them to return home to India. Despite the challenging circumstances, the crew members are reportedly in good spirits and are being supported by organizations providing emotional care and assistance.
India is a major hub for seafarers, and despite being paid less than their American counterparts, Indian crew members are able to make a decent living by working at sea for extended periods. Working on a cargo ship is a demanding 24-hour job without breaks, involving maintenance checks, cooking, cleaning, and ensuring the engine room functions properly. Crew members do have some leisure activities available to them onboard, such as video games, workouts, and movie nights, to help break up the monotony of their work. The crew aboard the Dali has access to entertainment options such as TV, magazines, and books to pass the time while their ship remains stuck in the port.
There are concerns within the Indian seafaring community about the impact the bridge collapse could have on their industry and the country’s international image. Some fear that the Indian crew members on the Dali may face repercussions that could affect their job prospects in the future. However, support from organizations within the port community, such as the Baltimore International Seafarers’ Center and Apostleship of the Sea, is being provided to the crew members to help them through this challenging time. Care packages and words of encouragement have been sent to the crew members as they navigate the uncertain circumstances following the disaster. Despite the ongoing questions about their next steps, efforts are being made to ensure the well-being and emotional support of the crew members as they await their next move.
