Helicopter Carrying Relief Goods Crashes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Peshawar, Aug 15 (PTI): A tragic incident occurred when a helicopter carrying relief goods for rain-affected areas crashed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, due to adverse weather conditions. Sadly, the crash resulted in the deaths of two pilots and three others. The helicopter, an MI-17 belonging to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, had departed from Peshawar and was en route to Bajaur. Communication was lost when the aircraft was over the Mohmand tribal district, as per initial reports. Shahab Ali Shah, the Chief Secretary of the province, confirmed that the poor weather conditions led to the unfortunate crash. The province has been severely impacted by torrential rains, leading to over 100 deaths, numerous injuries, and several people missing due to the resulting flash floods and landslides, particularly in Bajaur and Buner districts. The helicopter crashed in Changi Banda, where three rescue personnel and the pilots were confirmed deceased. Authorities are investigating whether factors other than the weather contributed to the crash. Rescue teams have been deployed to the crash site, and the deceased will be honored with full state ceremonies. Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, expressed profound sadness over the tragedy and declared a province-wide day of mourning on Saturday. “We share the grief of the bereaved families,” Gandapur stated. “The helicopter crew sacrificed their lives to save others — they are our true heroes, and their sacrifice will be remembered in golden words in history.” The province's second helicopter is currently conducting rescue operations in Buner district, according to the chief minister.