A plane crash in South Sudan has resulted in the deaths of 20 oil workers, leaving only one survivor. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff near Unity State while the plane was en route to Juba. Among the victims were five foreign nationals. Investigations are currently ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.
A tragic aviation incident in South Sudan has claimed the lives of 20 individuals, all oil workers, while leaving only one survivor. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from an area close to the oil fields in Unity State on Wednesday morning. The government confirmed the plane was en route to Juba when it went down just three minutes into the flight, as stated by Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol.
Among those who perished were five foreign nationals: two from China, one from India, and two Ugandan crew members. Additionally, 15 of the deceased were South Sudanese citizens. The investigation into the cause of the accident is underway, although the specific reasons have yet to be determined.
Minister Chol expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those on board during this incredibly difficult time.” The workers were employed by the Greater Pioneer Company (GPOC), and the flight was operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company. GPOC is a collaborative venture involving state-owned oil entities from India, China, Malaysia, and South Sudan.
This flight was reportedly intended as a routine exploration mission. Unfortunately, South Sudan’s aviation sector suffers from a lack of robust infrastructure and a troubling safety record, often leading to accidents attributed to aircraft overloading or adverse weather conditions. In a similar incident in 2021, a cargo plane carrying fuel for the UN’s World Food Programme crashed near Juba, resulting in five fatalities.
The aviation infrastructure in South Sudan is underdeveloped, contributing to frequent air accidents in the region. Various factors, such as aircraft overloading and challenging weather conditions, are often cited as the causes of these incidents. The country’s air transport system reflects ongoing challenges within South Sudan, including safety concerns and logistical difficulties that plague the industry. Historical context indicates that incidents involving loss of life have periodically occurred, stressing the need for improved aviation safety standards.
The plane crash in South Sudan is a stark reminder of the nation’s struggles with aviation safety and infrastructure. The loss of 20 lives is a tragedy for the families and the surrounding communities. While investigations are ongoing, the need for enhanced safety measures and improved air transport conditions in South Sudan has never been more pressing, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
