A towboat crashed into the Guillermo Gaviria Bridge in Barrancabermeja, Colombia, on Sunday morning. The vessel struck one of the bridge’s piers while navigating the Magdalena River at approximately 6:15 a.m. The river’s waters were swollen due to heavy rainfall, and a strong current reportedly made maneuvering difficult. Local fishermen suggested that the vessel may have been operating outside the designated navigation channel at the time of the incident.
Details of the Incident and Rescue Efforts
The impact caused significant damage to the vessel, shearing off the top of its pilothouse. Soon after, the towboat began to take on water, partially sinking by its stern. Fortunately, all crew members aboard were uninjured. Local residents, including fishermen, quickly responded to the scene, providing assistance with life jackets until official salvage teams could arrive. Eyewitnesses described the event as alarming, noting that the strong current seemed to push the vessel uncontrollably toward the bridge.
Investigation and Community Concerns
Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash and to assess any potential structural damage to the bridge. Despite the ongoing inspection by civil engineers, vehicular traffic on the bridge continues to operate normally. Residents have voiced their concerns about the heightened risk posed by the swollen river and what they perceive as a slow official response.
They also mentioned recent smaller accidents involving other vessels being swept away by the current. There are growing calls for authorities to implement stronger safety measures to ensure secure navigation on the river. The vessel, which typically transports dry bulk and petroleum cargo, is now the subject of a salvage operation to clear the waterway and restore normal operations in the area.
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Source: Marine Insight
