Rs 1 million compensation announced for those killed in plane crash

KARACHI: Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan has announced compensation for the families of those who were killed in the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plane crash in Karachi on Friday.

As per details, the PIA plane carrying an estimated 99 people on board crashed into a residential area near Karachi airport, resulting in 97 casualties.

Talking to the media in Karachi today, Ghulam Sarwar Khan said families of those who were killed would receive Rs 1 million each while the two survivors would be given Rs 500,000 each.

He also announced that the government would offer compensation to the residents of the area whose houses and cars have been affected.

“A lot of damage has been done. We have instructed that an initial survey be carried out and the government will pay for the damages after the assessment has been done,” Sarwar added.

The minister further said that the government’s first priority was to hand over the bodies of the victims to their families after identification. He expressed grief over the terrible incident and offered condolences to the families of those who died.

He said “The pilot had attempted to land at the airport but landing gear was not opening. The plane was crashed when the pilot made another attempt to land the aircraft”.

Khan said that “All facts will come to light after the inquiry report. “A transparent inquiry will be conducted and true information will be given to heirs of the victims,” he mentioned.

“Four experienced members of the Pakistan Air Force are part of the committee. They will make full efforts to present the facts.”

The minister said the government would take “100 per cent” responsibility for any negligence that led to the crash.

Responding to a question, he said: “If the report says the PIA CEO showed negligence, he will resign. If it says we have shown negligence, then not only will we resign but also present ourselves for accountability.”