Shiv Sena bats for aircraft movement study

Mumbai: In the backdrop of the Ghatkopar plane crash incident, the Shiv Sena has demanded that a study of aircraft movement in Mumbai be carried out. The party raised several questions in regards to the maintenance of planes by private firms and lack of open spaces in the metropolis.

Sena MP Sanjay Raut suggested that the government should undertake a study of the city's geography and aspects such as the increasing population and cramped buildings with respect to the movement of aircraft in the metropolis, which houses the country's busiest airport.

Mr Raut said, “Lack of open space in the financial capital makes it difficult for a big aircraft to land safely in case of an emergency. The plane that crashed in Ghatkopar was small. However, if a big plane needs to carry out an emergency landing, where is the open space for it?  If the pilot (of such an aircraft) does not find an open space, there could be a bigger mishap.”

Stating that the Ghatkopar incident should be considered as a warning for an impending danger, the leader said, “Mumbai's geography, rising population, cramped spaces and tall buildings need to be studied with respect to the movement of aircraft and their security.” The crash has brought several questions to the fore and highlighted issues such as laxity on the part of private aviation companies in maintaining planes.

“Mishaps cannot be averted, but staying alert to prevent such incidents is in our hands. Was UY Aviation cautious enough to take the necessary steps to prevent an accident? Deceased pilot Marya Zuberi's family has claimed the crew was forced to undertake the test flight despite bad weather. If the claim is true, the company sent  crew members in the jaws of death,” he added.