Kathmandu Tragedy: We mourn and demand proper investigation

We mourn the biggest aircraft accident in the country’s history that has killed 51. The Bombardier Dash-8 Q400 aircraft of US-Bangla crashed with 71 on board near the Tribhuvan International Airport while attempting to land in Kathmandu, the Nepal capital. We express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family members and loved ones of the deceased and injured from Bangladesh, Nepal and other countries. Peace be upon the departed souls.

Most of the passengers in the aircraft were from Bangladesh and Nepal. The accident and the resulting death toll grieved both the countries.

The civil aviation authorities in Nepal have already formed a probe body to investigate into the matter. As there were multiple stakeholders in the accident, each of the parties will take initiative for investigation on its own.

The Tribhuvan International Airport has all along been considered as a difficult one for takeoff and landing. Several factors are being speculated as probable reasons for the crash. But, it seems that it will take time to ascertain the actual reason. We hope the Bangladesh government will also take steps for a proper investigation into the accident.

Right now, the most important task is to ensure the best treatment for those in the hospital and delivery of the bodies to their family members. This requires the initiative of the government as well as of the US-Bangla Airlines. Authorities of the airlines have already announced to bear the medical expenses of the injured. We think, some of the injured must be brought to Bangladesh or be taken to some other country, if it requires.

Loss of life is not compensable anyhow. The whole country grieves watching photos of the lost ones, which are being circulated on the social media. One has lost spouse, another lost his parents or, brother or sister while none of a family survived the deadly crash. Nothing can compensate these. Despite the fact, US-Bangla Airlines authorities must ensure adequate compensation to the families of the victims.

We must learn from this disaster. Any fault concerning aviation security is scrutinised with a zero tolerance policy across the world as scope of surviving in air accident is slim.

The civil aviation authorities must verify the flight security issues as several private airlines are conducting those in the country now. Laws must be implemented strictly and if they are inadequate for tackling this, stricter laws must be introduced.

If the investigation reveals any negligence on our part, it has to be taken into account seriously - if we really want this tragedy not to be repeated.