New Delhi, Feb 24 (NationPress) Jharkhand's Health Minister, Irfan Ansari, described the recent air ambulance crash in Chatra as a deeply tragic and significant event, confirming that all seven individuals aboard perished when the aircraft went down in a remote forested area of the district.

Upon arriving in Chatra post-crash, Ansari recounted how the aircraft had lost radar contact while it was in transit, transporting a patient to Delhi.

“Yesterday evening, a patient was being flown to Delhi via a Redbird aircraft when I received the alarming news that it had vanished from radar. It was later confirmed that the plane had crashed in the forests of Chatra. There were seven individuals on board, and rescue operations ensued. Tragically, all seven were found deceased. This incident is of considerable magnitude,” the minister stated.

Authorities reported that the air ambulance lost communication shortly after taking off, which triggered an emergency response.

Rescue teams, including local law enforcement and disaster management personnel, commenced a search operation in the dense forest. After extensive searching, the wreckage was located, and all seven occupants were retrieved from the crash site.

Expressing grave concern regarding aviation safety, Ansari questioned the responsibility of national authorities. “What actions is the Government of India taking? After incidents in Ahmedabad, Baramati, and now this, who will be held accountable? Our local hospitals are not equipped, which forces patients to seek treatment outside. We are committed to providing full support, and strict measures will be taken against those found responsible,” he emphasized.

The minister also highlighted the inadequate medical facilities in the region, pointing out that patients frequently need to seek treatment elsewhere, which increases the reliance on air ambulance services.

The flight details indicate that the aircraft took off from Ranchi at 7:07 p.m. and became airborne by 7:11 p.m. After establishing contact with Kolkata Air Traffic Control, it lost communication and radar tracking at approximately 7:34 p.m., around 100 nautical miles southeast of Varanasi.

Reportedly, the loss of contact happened near Palamu in northwestern Jharkhand. The flight was scheduled to arrive in Delhi by 10 p.m.

An investigation has been launched to ascertain the precise cause of the crash. Aviation specialists are expected to analyze technical aspects, including radar data and flight logs, as part of the inquiry. More information will follow.