A tragic plane crash in South Sudan has claimed the lives of at least 20 people, leaving only one survivor. The aircraft, chartered by an oil company, crashed shortly after takeoff and was carrying employees. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash, amidst ongoing concerns regarding air safety in the region.
A devastating plane crash in Unity State, South Sudan, resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, with only one confirmed survivor, reported Gatwech Bipal Both, the state’s Minister for Information. The Ukrainian-chartered aircraft, belonging to the Greater Pioneer Operating Company and operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, tragically went down shortly after its 10:30 AM takeoff, en route to Juba, the capital.
Minister Gatwech mentioned that the plane crashed just 500 meters from the airport, confirming that 21 people were aboard, with one being a South Sudanese engineer from an oil field. The survivor was promptly transported to Bentiu State Hospital for medical assistance.
In light of this tragedy, the minister conveyed the state government’s deep sorrow and announced that an investigation is underway to ascertain the causes of the crash. He noted suspicions of mechanical failure, though no detailed conclusions have yet been reached.
The passenger manifest revealed the composition of the victims, comprising 16 South Sudanese nationals, two Chinese nationals, and one Indian national, all employees of GPOC. Photos circulating on social media depicted the wreckage, showcasing the aircraft in a field, tragically highlighting the gravity of the incident.
President Salva Kiir expressed his heartfelt condolences and prayers for the survivor’s recovery. He directed the Ministry of Transport and relevant authorities to execute a thorough and expedited investigation into the crash’s circumstances.
South Sudan has grappled with significant air safety challenges, attributed to political and economic turmoil, as well as an unreliable transport infrastructure. Such air accidents have become distressingly common, often linked to issues such as aircraft overloading and adverse weather conditions.
The plane crash occurring in South Sudan is indicative of broader air safety challenges faced by the country, which has been marked by economic instability since gaining independence in 2011. Air transport in South Sudan is frequently hindered by inadequate infrastructure and safety regulations. The current tragedy underscores the urgent need for comprehensive examinations of air travel mechanisms within the nation to prevent future incidents.
In summary, the tragic plane crash in South Sudan has left the nation mourning the loss of 20 individuals, with only one survivor. An investigation is currently underway to uncover the causes behind this fatal event. The incident highlights the pressing air safety issues in the region, prompting reflections on necessary improvements to safeguard air travel for South Sudanese citizens.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
