Insights from Eyewitnesses Shed Light on the Nepal Plane Crash Mystery”.
Kathmandu, Nepal– On July 24, tragedy struck at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport when a Saurya Airlines Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft burst into flames during takeoff. The incident claimed the lives of at least 18 people, leaving the nation in shock.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the harrowing moments leading up to the crash. Aadesh Lama, who was working in his garage, recounted hearing a loud sound. “We thought a tire had burst,” he said, “but then we realized it was a plane crash.” Lama emphasized the role of a nearby container, which absorbed the impact and prevented the plane from hitting a residential area. “The container saved us,” he added.
Another witness, Krishna Bahadur Thapa, vividly recalled the sequence of events. “At first, there was a loud bang,” Thapa said. “We assumed it was a vehicle accident, but it turned out to be an aircraft crash.” The plane slid down the runway, billowing smoke, before erupting into flames. Thapa rushed to the crash site, where he witnessed a second explosion.
Casualties and Aftermath
Fifteen people lost their lives instantly, while three others succumbed to injuries later in the hospital. Airport services in Kathmandu briefly halted after the accident but have since resumed.
Saurya Airlines and Air Safety Concerns
Saurya Airlines operates domestic flights in Nepal, relying on two Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jets, both approximately 20 years old. However, this incident has raised questions about air safety in the country. Nepal has faced criticism for its poor air safety record, with nearly 350 fatalities resulting from plane and helicopter crashes since 2000.
As investigations continue, the nation mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event.
