A Pakistan Army helicopter crashed in Azad Kashmir due to a technical fault, the military said on Wednesday, confirming no survivors. The Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday afternoon during take-off, resulting in the martyrdom of all 20 personnel on board, according to the military's media wing.
Details of the Crash
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a press release stating, "An Mi-17 helicopter of Pakistan Army Aviation crashed near Muzaffarabad today during take-off due to technical fault." The statement added, "All personnel on board embraced Shahadat (martyrdom)," without initially specifying the number of casualties. Witnesses reported that the helicopter crashed shortly after take-off from a helipad. Ambulances quickly arrived at the scene and transported the victims to a nearby hospital.
Rescue and Investigation
The military confirmed that rescue and recovery teams reached the crash site immediately. A board of inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the crash. The helicopter was carrying 14 personnel of the Pakistan Rangers and a six-member Army Aviation crew when the accident occurred near Shaukat Lines, Muzaffarabad, at approximately 3:00 pm. The tragic incident marks one of the deadliest military aviation accidents in recent years, with the loss of an entire crew and Rangers contingent during an operational flight in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Condolences from Leaders
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sorrow over the crash, paying tribute to those martyred. In separate statements, they conveyed sympathies to the victims' families. Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of those killed, according to the ISPR statement. Further details are awaited as the inquiry and recovery efforts continue.
