ONGC to probe chopper crash, announces support for package for bereaved families

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is set to institute a high-level independent investigation into the ill-fated Chopper crash on Saturday, which led to the demise of six passengers on-board and one still missing.

Shashi Shanker, CMD ONGC, while expressing his grief over the irreparable loss, said, "No compensation can substitute such a tragic loss. We are trying to provide all support to help the families to tide over this colossal crisis."

Laying stress on safety issues, Shanker said that he had already had discussions with the CMD of Pawan Hans to work out various modalities to ensure accident-free future operations.

Shanker also pointed out that "all permissible steps will be taken to restore safety and confidence of offshore-going personnel".

He also warned that stern action will be taken if any lapses are found on safety front.

Stressing on the importance of air logistics, he said, "We will go beyond DGCA compliance procedures for the aircrafts and that a critical review of safety-adequacy of each and every aspect of the helicopter fleet and its operation will be carried out to bring about necessary changes."

Shanker, who is spearheading search and rescue operations, said "In this hour of grief, I, along-with my colleagues on the board, as well as all ONGCians, stand by the families of the deceased officers. While praying for the peace of the departed souls, I want to assure you that we will take all measures to support the families in the best possible manner."

The search operation is still on for the missing ONGC officer in association with the Indian Coast Guard.