A small aircraft with seven passengers on board crashed near Jagada block by Rourkela airstrip in Indian state of Odisha while trying to take off for Bhubaneswar on Saturday. According to preliminary reports, a nine-seater IndiaOne Air aircraft flying from Rourkela to Bhubaneswar crashed in Odisha, around 10–15 km from Rourkela. All seven people on board were rescued and shifted to hospital, while the cause of the crash is under investigation.

The aircraft reportedly ran into trouble moments after take-off and came down near the airstrip area. The cause of the crash is not yet known. According to the information available, the aircraft was carrying seven people, including six passengers and one pilot. The plane reportedly went down around 10–15 kilometres from Rourkela. Soon after the incident was reported, concerned departments swung into action.

Rescue teams reached the crash site and shifted the passengers to a hospital for medical treatment. A team from the tourism department is also expected to arrive from Bhubaneswar to assess the situation. Authorities have initiated the process of investigation to determine how and under what circumstances the aircraft crashed.

Officials said an official confirmation on the cause will be possible only after the probe is completed. Meanwhile, the administration and related agencies remain on alert, with local authorities making security and assistance arrangements. The incident has triggered concern in the region as people await further details.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)