Karachi: Aircraft crash added another disaster amidst coronavirus. Pakistan International Airline (PIA) aircraft crashed in the residential area nearby Karachi airport while landing. The Airbus PK 8303 carried 90 passengers along with 8 crew members. The flight took off from Lahore and was to land at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi.
Abdullah Hafeez, PIA spokesperson confirmed that the plane carried 90 passengers and 8 crew members from Lahore to Karachi. Prime Minister Imran Khan grieved over the mishap.
“Shocked & saddened by the PIA crash. Am in touch with PIA CEO Arshad Malik, who has left for Karachi & with the rescue & relief teams on ground as this is the priority right now. Immediate inquiry will be instituted. Prayers & condolences go to families of the deceased”, PM tweeted.
Air Marshal Arshad Mallik, PIA Chief Executive Officer said that the pilot had been informed about the technical glitch in the aircraft. Though the two runaways were available for landing, the pilot decided to circumnavigate instead of taking down.
Several videos have been circulated on Twitter with the images of thick black smoke covering the sky. The aircraft shattered several houses leading to several deaths. It has been estimated that over 100 people have lost their lives. The plane crashed in the residential areas causing severe casualties in the area.
Pakistani army came to the rescue. The paramilitary troops reached the location and carried out certain measures to help the people. Also, Sindh Pakistan Ranger arrived at the spot. It has been reported that the Minister of Health and Population Welfare declared an emergency in the major hospitals in Karachi.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has recorded over 50,000 coronavirus cases and the death toll stands at 1,067.
—– Tanmaya Das