At the outset itself, NewsIP expresses its heartfelt condolences for the Uttarakhand Helicopter Crash and for the lives lost. It prays that the almighty give their dependents strength in this hour of untold grief.
India was still grappling and trying to come to terms with the ill fated Air Crash in Ahmedabad, when news of a Chopper going down in Uttarakhand yesterday, killing seven, hit the headlines. Is Indian Aviation cursed or is it missing something really serious ? Why is it, time and again, air mishaps are happening almost at an alarming rate? Ill fate can confront any industry. But when it takes place repeatedly, something more than fate and law of averages seem to be at play. India is well known for its _jugar_ and_chalta hai_ nature but when these become killers one has to sit up and take notice. Imagine a modern industry which is zero error based meets the _karmic_ culture; often it’s a recipe for disaster! If we are not up for it, let us outsource it to others, who do a better job. After all IT in many advanced countries is outsourced!
Now, the helicopter which went down was said to be faced with tough weather conditions. Pray why was it allowed to fly? What’s the point of now grounding and checking the machines? Why were they allowed to fly in the first place, without these very checks? Why fly, if there is even an iota of doubt? Is life to be toyed with, on the altar of lucre? We may like to ape the west and purchase the latest air equipment but what’s the use if we do not adhere to strict standards of operation & maintenance. Do we not understand that minimum operating standards, including weather conditions, have to be strictly adhered to? Most in India would today answer, no, maybe not.
Even a British Military F 35 did not hesitate to seek assistance when in danger. No chances were taken. But in India we go on flying, oblivious of the danger lurking at every corner. In fact, Aviation, in India is becoming a sector of chance takers and apologists. While it may be going too far, as some are suggesting, levelling charges of culpable homicide but responsibility fixing and public disclosure for deterrence is definitely required.
NewsIP has been trying to point out for some time now, that certain sectors need strict adherence to standards. Aviation is one of them. Money factor cannot be allowed override this. It’s one sector which has to ensure that technology works in close collaboration with laws of nature. The slightest risk is to be avoided, lest there are horrific consequences. We only hope that those who are at the helm of affairs, have at least now, learnt a lesson.
Many have started seriously saying that if Doctors can have a record of Mortality Rate why not Air Operators? Ok a bit morbid. But at least a public display, ( ok, even on their websites), of every Airline, with respect to their near misses and causes, can make everyone more educated. Forget about the panicking of customers, Indians are made of sterner stuff. Just allow them to make considered decisions based on full facts; *to do or not to do* , flying!
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