MPA continues to extend its support to the US Coast Guard and local authorities

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Published 27 Mar 2024

1.   The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is deeply saddened by the incident involving the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with the affected families during this very difficult time. Mr Teo Eng Dih, MPA Chief Executive, has extended to Admiral Linda L. Fagan, Commandant US Coast Guard, MPA’s continued support to the US Coast Guard and the local authorities.

2.   MPA is working with the ship management company, Synergy Marine Pte Ltd, to facilitate information exchange to support US Coast Guard in its investigation. MPA has also requested the vessel’s classification society, ClassNK, to prepare the technical assessment and stability calculations, which are important parameters to support the US Coast Guard in the planning and subsequent safe execution of the vessel salvage operations.

3.   MPA, as the Singapore flag administration, takes its responsibilities for the safety of vessels registered under its flag very seriously. It works with eight international classification societies, appointed as MPA’s Recognised Organisations, to survey, inspect and ensure Singapore-flag vessels comply with all applicable statutory requirements.

4.   MPA will continue to conduct Flag State and Port State inspections and ensure navigational safety of our port. This is done through designing of channels and waterways in accordance with international PIANC guidelines and ensuring that

maritime professionals maintain proficiency.

5.   As part of its flag state obligations, MPA will be conducting an investigation to determine whether there have been any infringements of relevant statutory requirements under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.

6.   The Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB), under Singapore’s Ministry of Transport, will be conducting an independent marine safety investigation under the International Maritime Organization's Casualty Investigation Code with the objective of identifying lessons to prevent future marine casualties and incidents. TSIB’s marine safety investigation do not seek to apportion responsibility or determine the liability for the incident.

7.   MPA will continue to work with the ship management company to ensure that the welfare of Dali’s crew is taken care of throughout the incident, and that the company fully cooperates with the relevant local authorities.