Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad during take-off on Wednesday, resulting in the martyrdom of all personnel on board, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military’s media wing stated that the tragic accident occurred due to a technical fault and confirmed that there were no survivors.
According to ISPR, the Mi-17 helicopter developed a technical fault during the take-off phase shortly after departing near Muzaffarabad, which led to the crash.
The military confirmed that all personnel aboard the helicopter embraced martyrdom in the incident.
Rescue Teams Reached Crash Site Immediately
ISPR said rescue and recovery teams immediately rushed to the crash site after the accident. Emergency responders launched rescue and recovery operations as soon as information regarding the crash was received.
However, officials confirmed that no one survived the incident.
Board of Inquiry Ordered
To determine the exact cause of the accident, a board of inquiry has been ordered. ISPR stated that the investigation will focus on identifying the precise technical fault that caused the helicopter to crash.
The findings of the inquiry are expected to help establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
PM, Military Leadership Express Grief
Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, expressed deep grief over the loss of precious lives.
The military leadership extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength and patience for those mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic helicopter crash. Paying tribute to the personnel martyred in the accident, the prime minister said the entire nation salutes the sacrifices of its brave sons.
He prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and extended heartfelt condolences to their families, asking Allah to grant them patience and strength during this difficult time.
Also Read: PTI Rejects Gilgit-Baltistan Elections, Announces Protest and White Paper on Alleged Rigging
