I have been retired for a while but it is good to see that in this ever-changing world that some things never change.
I was watching a recent programme on BBC1, Why Bridges Collapse, about the MV Dali container vessel hitting the bridge at Baltimore.
The part where they were taking the bridge's trusses off the bow of the vessel I found quite illuminating. (Well, actually nothing that most seafarers don't already know.)
As the steel was under tension, it was safer to use a controlled explosion rather than gas cutting to sever the steelwork. Because of the blast radius, a safety zone was set up. The zone appears to have been a good size as the explosion was larger than expected – with debris flying quite some distance.
Fortunately, everyone was outside the safety zone so there were no problems. Well, not quite everyone was evacuated from the danger area. I quote: 'Visa restrictions prevent Dali's crew from leaving the ship. … With safety measures in place they are moved to the stern away from the blast.'
Well I guess that's OK then, risk assessed etc. no doubt. Most considerate, given the paperwork difficulties probably stopped them going ashore in port as well. It's good to know they always had the crew's safety at heart, even if they were only foreign seafarers.
I don't think I need comment further.
Doug MacLeod
Why Bridges Collapse is available to view in the UK on BBC iPlayer until December 2025
More letters
Britain's WW2 government acknowledged Merchant Navy sacrifice
As you will know, this year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day. I enclose a copy of a transmission, sent by telegraphy in May 1945, from the Admiralty to 'all ships', expressing the victory message to the Merchant Navy, from the minister of war transport.
Warm QM2 welcome for Cunard war veteran
Knowing that we would be marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day this year, I was honoured recently to meet a Merchant Navy veteran of the Second World War.
New addition to Hull historic trail celebrates maritime education
On 27 March 2025 at 12 noon, the Old Boys of the Hull Trinity House School Association and the Hull Trinity House Brethren held a ceremony to celebrate the work of Hull Trinity House School over more than two centuries.