A plane crash in northern South Sudan claimed the lives of at least 20 individuals, with one survivor reported. The aircraft went down near oil fields shortly after takeoff. Investigation into the cause is underway, with potential mechanical failure suggested. Victims included South Sudanese, Chinese, and Indian nationals, reflecting the region’s ongoing aviation risks.
A tragic plane crash in northern South Sudan has resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, with only one confirmed survivor, as reported by Unity State’s Minister for Information, Gatwech Bipal Both. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff at approximately 10:30 AM local time (0830 GMT), near the oil fields, just 500 meters from the airport. The sole survivor, a South Sudanese engineer, has been transported to a hospital in Bentiu State for medical care.
The aircraft involved in the accident was a Ukrainian passenger plane operated by Light Air Services and chartered by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC). It was performing a routine mission in the area. Minister Both expressed the state government’s sorrow over the incident and indicated that an investigation would be pursued. He suggested that mechanical failure may have been a contributing factor, although further specifics were not disclosed.
The passenger manifest revealed that among the 21 occupants were 16 South Sudanese, two Chinese nationals, and one Indian citizen. Emergency responders shared images on social media depicting the wreckage of the aircraft, which was overturned in a nearby field. The photos, which have not been independently verified by AFP, included distressing scenes of debris scattered across the crash site.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has grappled with significant economic and political turmoil, leading to a lack of reliable transportation infrastructure. Air travel remains perilous, with incidents often attributed to overloading or adverse weather conditions. Past incidents include a 2021 cargo plane crash that killed five individuals and a fatal 2015 crash involving an Antonov aircraft that resulted in 36 fatalities. In 2017, a plane incident in Wau nearly ended in disaster, but fortunately, all aboard survived following a collision with a fire truck on the runway.
South Sudan, which became an independent nation in 2011, has experienced ongoing economic and political challenges that have compromised its transportation infrastructure. Air travel is fraught with danger, often resulting in accidents due to factors such as overloading and inclement weather. The country has witnessed numerous fatal incidents over the years, underscoring the precarious nature of aviation within its borders. The government has grappled with these issues while seeking to improve safety regulations and protocols in the aviation sector.
The plane crash in South Sudan highlights the persistent dangers associated with aviation in the region, exacerbated by infrastructure issues and regulatory challenges. With only one survivor among the victims, the state government has vowed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks that South Sudanese citizens face while utilizing limited air travel options.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
