A massive crane is being brought in to assist with the cleanup efforts at the scene of the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The crane, which is the largest on the East Coast, is tasked with removing up to 4,000 tons of precarious debris that has impeded search and rescue operations following the tragic incident.
The collapse occurred when a 984-foot cargo vessel collided with the bridge on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of six lives. As of now, four individuals are still unaccounted for, and the crane's arrival is expected to help expedite the process of clearing the wreckage to facilitate the search for the missing victims.
In addition to the massive crane, three heavy lift vessels are scheduled to arrive at the site to further aid in the cleanup efforts. US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has confirmed this development, emphasizing the importance of reopening the cargo channel that plays a crucial role in both the local and national economy.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore acknowledged the complexity of the task at hand, describing it as 'an incredibly complex job.' He emphasized the enormity of the challenge faced by the workers on site and noted that the timeline for completing the cleanup and recovery efforts will be extensive.
The deployment of the massive crane and additional heavy lift vessels marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the bridge collapse. The collaborative work of search and rescue teams, along with the support of specialized equipment, underscores the commitment to restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of the community in the wake of this tragic event.
