A plane crash in Unity State, South Sudan, killed at least 20 people, with only one survivor confirmed. The aircraft, chartered by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company, crashed shortly after take-off. The incident prompted an investigation, and President Salva Kiir expressed condolences and called for a thorough examination to improve aviation safety in the nation.
A tragic plane crash occurred in Unity State, South Sudan, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, with just one confirmed survivor. The South Sudanese Minister for Information, Gatwech Bipal Both, reported that the Ukrainian aircraft, chartered by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company and operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, crashed shortly after take-off at 10:30 a.m. local time, approximately 500 meters from the airport.
The sole survivor, a South Sudanese engineer, was promptly transported to Bentiu State Hospital for medical treatment. The flight was on a routine mission to the oil fields, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the crash, with initial speculations suggesting a potential mechanical issue.
The passenger manifest listed 21 individuals on board, all employees of GPOC, comprising 16 South Sudanese, 2 Chinese, and 1 Indian national. Photos circulated on social media depicted the upside-down wreckage, with debris scattered across a wide area.
In response to the tragedy, President Salva Kiir expressed profound sorrow and extended prayers for the recovery of the sole survivor. He has directed the Ministry of Transport and relevant authorities to initiate a thorough and prompt investigation into the incident.
South Sudan has faced numerous air safety concerns due to the ongoing economic and political instability, characterized by inadequate transport infrastructure. Air accidents are frequently attributed to factors such as overloading or adverse weather conditions, further complicating the country’s aviation safety situation.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of aviation safety in South Sudan, a nation that has struggled with instability since gaining independence in 2011. The lack of reliable transport infrastructure often contributes to frequent air accidents, which are commonly linked to mechanical failures, overloading, and inclement weather. The response from the government indicates an intention to address these safety concerns through investigations and improvements.
The recent plane crash in South Sudan serves as a somber reminder of the significant air safety issues faced by the country. With 20 lives tragically lost and only one survivor, authorities are poised to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash deeply. It is crucial for the government to enhance aviation safety measures to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safe transport of individuals within the region.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
