Investigators target ship's electrical system in Baltimore bridge collapse

11 Apr 2024 CW Team

During the early stages of a federal investigation into the tragic collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, the focus of investigators shifted towards the electrical power system of the immense container ship that deviated from its intended course.

Jennifer Homendy, the chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, mentioned that their agency was in the process of collecting data with the assistance of Hyundai, the manufacturer responsible for the equipment within the ship's engine room. Speaking before a US Senate committee, she mentioned that investigators had also requested help to examine its circuit breakers.

She stated, "Our current focus in this investigation is directed towards that aspect. However, it's important to note that this is preliminary. The investigation might take different directions as we proceed."

Homendy emphasised their scrutiny on the electrical system, noting that the ship encountered power problems just before the accident, as seen in videos showing intermittent loss and restoration of its lights.

Information retrieved from the vessel's voyage data recorder was described as rather basic by Homendy, who expressed hope that data from the engine room would provide significant assistance.

Furthermore, investigators were evaluating the bridge's design and contemplating potential enhancements in pier protection "according to contemporary standards," Homendy added.

Last month, the container ship Dali, fully loaded with cargo en route to Sri Lanka, was departing Baltimore when it collided with one of the bridge's supporting columns. This collision led to the collapse of the span into the Patapsco River, resulting in the tragic deaths of six members of a roadwork crew who fell into the river.

While divers have recovered three bodies from the submerged wreckage, the fate of the remaining three victims remains unknown.

Real Estate

11 Nov 2025

Hettich Showcases ‘Magical Motion’ Innovations at Acetech 2025

Staying true to its promise of ‘Magical Interior Experiences’, Hettich unveiled a futuristic showcase at Acetech 2025, reimagining the future of modern living and workspaces through innovative German engineering. As an Associate Partner, Hettich’s exhibit captivated visitors with the SpinLines family, headlined by its latest innovation — RoomSpin. This choreographed interior system transforms entire spaces within seconds by rotating room modules to create dynamic, flexible environments. Engineered with precision turning and swivelling mechanisms, it enables architects and designer..

HPWWI, Biesse Partner to Boost Woodworking Skill Development

The Hettich Poddar Wood Working Institute (HPWWI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Biesse, strengthening efforts to advance skill development in India’s woodworking sector.The partnership will enhance training in advanced woodworking machinery, helping learners integrate modern technology into traditional craftsmanship. It marks the second collaboration between HPWWI and Biesse — after Faridabad — now expanding to Bhandup, Mumbai, symbolising Biesse’s entry into India’s financial capital.Mr Amit Prasad, CHRO, Hettich India & Director, HPWWI, said, “At HPWWI, ..

ITA launches India programme to boost clean industry projects

The Industrial Transition Accelerator (ITA) has launched its India Project Support Programme and released the India Insights Briefing: Unlocking India’s Clean Industrialisation Opportunity, developed with Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The initiative seeks to accelerate investment-ready decarbonisation projects and drive low-carbon growth across India’s key industrial sectors. A global multi-stakeholder initiative launched at COP28, the ITA’s new programme aims to fast-track flagship industrial projects in sectors such as chemicals, steel, cement, aluminium, aviation, and shipping, supp..