In a significant incident, a barge collided with the Pelican Island Causeway in Galveston, Texas, leading to partial collapse of the bridge and an accompanying oil spill.
The collision occurred just before 10 am on Wednesday, resulting in extensive damage to the bridge structure.
Aerial Shots Reveal Devastating Impact
Aerial photographs captured the aftermath of the collision, showing the barge embedded into the side of the 3,239-foot-long bridge.
Portions of the train trestle along the bridge were also observed to have collapsed due to the impact of the collision.
Response and Cleanup Efforts Underway
Authorities swiftly responded to the incident, closing down the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway for six and a half miles to assess the situation and initiate cleanup efforts.
The closure has caused significant disruptions to maritime traffic along the Texas coast.
Details of the Collision
According to County Judge Mark Henry, the vessel was under tow when it broke loose and collided with the bridge, causing the damage.
Two crew members aboard the ship were thrown overboard during the collision but were subsequently rescued from the water.
Environmental Concerns Arise
The collision resulted in an oil spill from the barge, which has a capacity of 30,000 gallons, raising concerns about the environmental impact of the incident.
The extent of the oil spill and its potential consequences are yet to be determined by authorities.
Impact on Transportation and Local Community
The Pelican Island Causeway serves as a vital transportation link, connecting the north side of Galveston Island with the south side of Pelican Island.
Its closure has posed significant challenges for maritime traffic and local residents, including students at Texas A&M University at Galveston, who rely on the bridge for commuting.
Ongoing Investigation and Cleanup
The US Coast Guard has initiated response efforts to contain the oil spill and assess its impact on the surrounding environment.
The Galveston Office of Emergency Management is coordinating with relevant agencies to address the aftermath of the collision and ensure the safety and well-being of the local community.
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