Nine-seater aircraft crash lands in Rourkela; "all passengers safe," says Odisha CM
Rourkela, January 10
A nine-seater aircraft with passengers and crew onboard crash-landed at Kansar, Rourkela, in Sundargarh district on Saturday, with people trapped inside.
Upon receiving the information, fire units from Rourkela Fire Station and Panposh Fire Station were rushed to the scene for rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed condolences on the crash, informing that "all passengers are safe."
In a post on X, Majhi wrote, "I am deeply saddened to learn about the plane crash that occurred in Rourkela. The news that all passengers are safe by the grace of Lord Jagannath is reassuring."
He further said that he has directed the best immediate medical services to the injured, adding about his personal surveillance of the situation.
"I have directed that the immediate best medical services be provided to those injured in this incident. I am personally monitoring the situation. I am praying at the feet of Lord Sri Jagannath for the swift recovery of all," the CM wrote.
The aircraft was operating an IndiaOne Air flight. Further details on the crash are awaited.
Earlier in December, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the launch of 428 ambulances to strengthen emergency healthcare services across the state, with the first batch of 150 ambulances flagged off on December 23.
Speaking to ANI, the Chief Minister said the initiative aims to ensure faster, more efficient emergency response for people in both urban and rural areas."A total of 428 '108' ambulances have been launched, out of which the first 150 ambulances have been flagged off today. We are preparing to start the remaining ambulances by the end of January and deploy them across districts," Majhi said.
He added that the government conducted a detailed analysis to improve response time and ensure ambulances reach patients at the earliest. "We analysed how the ambulance can be mobilised as soon as possible," he said.
Emphasising the government's commitment to public health, the Chief Minister said, "We are also giving free emergency services to the people."
— ANI
Reader Comments
A crash landing with no fatalities is nothing short of a miracle. Hats off to the pilots and crew for handling such a critical situation. But serious questions need to be asked about the safety standards of these smaller aircraft operators. DGCA must investigate thoroughly.
The timing of this crash, right after the CM announced the new ambulance initiative, is chilling. It shows how crucial robust emergency infrastructure is. Hopefully, those 428 ambulances can make a real difference in response times across Odisha.
"All passengers safe" is the best news one can hear after such an incident. Jai Jagannath! The CM's personal monitoring is appreciated. However, I hope this leads to a review of regional air connectivity safety, not just statements. Action is needed.
This is why we need more focus on improving rail and road connectivity in states like Odisha alongside air travel. These smaller planes often serve remote areas, but safety cannot be compromised. Glad the fire teams reached quickly.
My heart was in my mouth reading the headline. So grateful for the positive outcome. The families must have gone through hell for those few minutes. Kudos to the rescue teams from Rourkela and Panposh. Real heroes.
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