A plane crash in Unity State, South Sudan, has resulted in 20 fatalities with one confirmed survivor. The Ukrainian aircraft, chartered by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company, went down shortly after take-off. An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway, while concerns over the country’s air safety are reignited following this tragedy.
In a devastating incident, a plane crash in Unity State, South Sudan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals. The tragedy occurred shortly after take-off from a local airport, with only one survivor confirmed. The aircraft, a Ukrainian passenger plane chartered by Greater Pioneer Operating Company and operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, went down at approximately 10:30 am local time.
Gatwech Bipal Both, the state’s Minister for Information, reported that the aircraft crashed just 500 meters from the airport. “21 people were on board. As for now, there’s only one survivor,” he stated. The lone survivor, an engineer employed at the oil field, was promptly taken to Bentiu State Hospital for medical treatment.
The minister expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced that an investigation would commence to uncover the cause of the crash. While preliminary thoughts suggest mechanical failure, no detailed information has been released yet. The passenger manifest indicated that those aboard were all employees of the GPOC, including 16 South Sudanese, two Chinese, and one Indian national.
Visuals circulated on social media depicted the wreckage of the aircraft, which lay overturned in a field with debris scattered extensively. Some images showed the tragic sight of bodies within the remnants of the fuselage. In a heartfelt statement, President Salva Kiir expressed profound sorrow and extended thoughts for the survivor’s recovery.
He has directed the Ministry of Transport and other relevant authorities to ensure a comprehensive investigation is conducted swiftly. South Sudan, having gained independence in 2011, has faced ongoing economic and political issues leading to a lack of dependable transport infrastructure. Consequently, air accidents have become more frequent, often attributed to overloading and adverse weather conditions.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing air safety issues in South Sudan, where a combination of economic hardship and political instability has resulted in inadequate transport infrastructure. Since gaining independence, the country has experienced numerous air accidents, often linked to mechanical failures or operational mismanagement. The focus on this incident underscores the urgent need for improvements in air safety protocols and infrastructure in South Sudan.
In conclusion, the plane crash in South Sudan’s Unity State is a grave reminder of the country’s ongoing air safety challenges. With 20 lives tragically lost and an investigation underway, it is imperative for authorities to address the fundamental issues contributing to such occurrences. Enhanced safety regulations and infrastructure improvements are critical for preventing future tragedies and ensuring the well-being of passengers in the region.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
