A plane crash in northern South Sudan has resulted in at least 20 fatalities, with only one survivor. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff near oil fields, involving a Ukrainian aircraft chartered by a local company. An investigation is underway, as the incident raises concerns about air safety in the region, which has a history of transport-related tragedies.
A tragic plane crash in northern South Sudan resulted in the death of at least 20 individuals, as confirmed by the minister for information in Unity State. The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft took off at approximately 10:30 am local time near the capital, Juba. Minister Gatwech Bipal Both reported that only one passenger survived, a South Sudanese engineer who has since been hospitalized in Bentiu State.
The ill-fated aircraft, a Ukrainian passenger plane, was chartered by Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) and operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company. It was on a routine flight to an area near oil fields when the crash happened only 500 meters from the airport. The minister expressed the state government’s profound sorrow regarding the incident and indicated that an investigation would be launched.
The manifest revealed that among the 21 passengers were 16 South Sudanese, two Chinese nationals, and one Indian citizen. The crash site showed disturbing images, with the aircraft upside down and wreckage scattered across the field, including a body visible from the crushed fuselage. Although the exact cause remains under investigation, the minister hinted at a potential mechanical malfunction.
Since its independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has experienced ongoing economic and political turmoil, contributing to a history of unreliable transportation and frequent air accidents. Crash incidents are typically attributed to factors such as aircraft overloading and adverse weather conditions. Previous incidents in South Sudan underline the issue of flight safety in the region, with tragic outcomes in similar circumstances.
In conclusion, this plane crash in South Sudan underscores the severe transportation challenges that persist in the region, exacerbated by economic instability and infrastructure shortcomings. The loss of life is deeply mourned, and a thorough investigation into the causes is essential to prevent further tragedies.
South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, has faced significant challenges, including economic instability and a lack of reliable transportation infrastructure. The region has a history of air accidents due to factors such as aircraft overloading, mechanical failures, and adverse weather conditions. Notable past incidents include the 2015 Juba crash that resulted in 36 fatalities and other aviation-related tragedies. The recurring nature of these accidents highlights the urgent need for improved safety protocols and regulatory measures within the country’s aviation sector.
The recent plane crash in South Sudan serves as a stark reminder of the region’s ongoing transportation issues and the potential for tragic outcomes. With significant loss of life, the incident calls for comprehensive investigations to determine the cause and mitigate future accidents. Enhanced aviation safety is paramount to protect lives and restore public confidence in air travel within South Sudan.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
