In a heartbreaking turn of events amid the current flood crisis, a Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government MI-17 helicopter crashed on Friday during a relief operation in the Bajaur district, resulting in the martyrdom of all five personnel on board.
The helicopter was en route to Salarzai, Bajaur, carrying emergency relief supplies to flood-affected families, when it disconnected from air control while flying over Mohmand district, according to official sources. Bad weather conditions and limited visibility are believed to be the cause of the tragic incident.
A Tragic Loss in the Duty’s Line
Verifying the incident, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to the martyred crew members, stating:
“These brave souls were on a mission to save lives. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. The province cries with their families.”
The provincial government has announced a day of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and official tributes decided for the fallen heroes.
Relief Operations Continue Under Harsh Conditions
Despite the crash, flood relief efforts are recent across KP. The province’s second government helicopter has been redirected to continue operations in Buner and surrounding districts, where access to remote villages remains a big challenge.
Over the last 48 hours, intensive monsoon rains have triggered deadly flash floods around the province, declaring at least 43 lives and injuring 14 others, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). Among the deceased are women and children, with reports of entire families being swept away in some areas.
Worst Flood Crisis Across KP
Districts including Swat, Buner, Bajaur, Mansehra, Shangla, and Battagram have reported harsh destruction. In Bajaur and Battagram the worst affected dozens of homes have been damaged, roads washed out, and communication links severed.
Residents in low-lying areas like Mingora, Malam Jabba, and Khwazakhela have taken protection on rooftops as floodwaters continue to rise. Eyewitnesses reported lightning-triggered cloudbursts in parts of Mansehra, enhancing the humanitarian emergency.
PDMA Urges Caution; More Rain Predicted
The PDMA has alerted that the current spell of heavy rains is likely to remain until August 21, and has recommended citizens in vulnerable districts to evacuate if possible.
In a public appeal, survivors from remote villages have called on the government to expedite rescue operations and provide emergency shelters, clean water, and food supplies.
