The Union Civil Aviation Ministry has formally launched an investigation into the tragic aircraft accident near Baramati, Maharashtra, and has provided firm assurances to the state government that the inquiry will be conducted with thoroughness, transparency, and within a strict timeframe. This development follows the devastating crash that claimed the lives of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and six other individuals on Wednesday.
Formal Investigation Underway
In a detailed letter addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dated January 29, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu confirmed that the investigation into the incident has officially commenced. According to the communication, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has initiated a formal probe under the established Aircraft Accident and Incident Rules.
Immediate Response and Evidence Collection
Teams from both the AAIB and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) were swiftly deployed to the crash site shortly after the incident occurred. Critical evidence, including the aircraft's black box, has been successfully recovered and secured for comprehensive examination. This crucial component will play a vital role in unraveling the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Minister Kinjarapu emphasized, "As per the Aircraft Accident and Incident Rules, the investigation has begun and will be conducted in a transparent and time-bound manner." He further detailed that all technical records, operational details, and physical evidence from the accident site are currently undergoing meticulous scrutiny. The primary objectives are to establish the precise sequence of events and identify the contributing factors behind the crash.
State Government's Concerns Addressed
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in his prior communication to the Union Minister, had specifically requested a detailed inquiry into the exact cause of the accident. He also urged the implementation of immediate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, highlighting concerns over aviation safety.
Assurances and Future Safety Measures
In response to the state government's request, Minister Naidu confirmed that the ministry has taken note of these serious concerns. He assured that once the investigation report is finalized, appropriate safety and regulatory measures will be implemented. This process will be carried out in close coordination with the AAIB, DGCA, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure comprehensive safety enhancements.
The Union Minister provided a clear commitment that the complete investigation report, along with its key findings, will be shared with the Maharashtra state government promptly after the probe is concluded. This assurance aims to maintain transparency and keep the state authorities fully informed throughout the investigative process.
The initiation of this formal, time-bound investigation represents a critical step toward understanding the causes of the Baramati tragedy and implementing necessary safeguards to enhance aviation safety protocols across the region.
