Chatra: Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari has launched a scathing critique against the Government of India following a “tragic and major” air ambulance crash in Chatra that claimed seven lives.
Minister Demands National Accountability
Speaking from the crash site in the dense forests of Chatra, Minister Ansari questioned the frequency of recent aviation disasters across the country.
“What is the Government of India doing?” Ansari demanded. “Ahmedabad, Baramati, and now this—who is accountable for these incidents? From our side, we will extend full support, and we will take strict action against whoever is found responsible.”
The Minister highlighted a systemic failure, noting that the lack of advanced medical facilities in Jharkhand forces patients to risk long-distance air travel for treatment.
The Fatal Flight: Seven Confirmed Dead
The incident involved a Redbird flight transporting a patient from Ranchi to New Delhi. After the aircraft disappeared from radar late Monday evening, rescue teams—including local police and disaster personnel—launched an extensive search operation.
Teams located the wreckage in the northwestern Jharkhand wilderness, confirming that all seven people on board died in the impact.
Timeline of the Incident
Investigation teams are currently analyzing the flight’s final moments:
- 7:07 PM: The aircraft departs from Ranchi.
- 7:11 PM: The flight becomes airborne.
- 7:34 PM: Radar and radio contact are lost with Kolkata Air Traffic Control near Palamu.
- 10:00 PM: The flight’s scheduled arrival time in Delhi.
Investigation and Next Steps
Authorities have initiated a formal probe into the cause of the crash. Aviation experts will examine technical data, including radar records and flight logs, to determine if mechanical failure or external factors led to the tragedy.
Minister Ansari reiterated that the state government remains committed to uncovering the truth behind the lapse in safety.
