Bangladesh jet crashes into school
In a devastating incident, a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in Dhaka's Uttara area, causing massive destruction and loss of life. At least 19 people were killed, predominantly students, with over 50 individuals hospitalized, many suffering severe burns.
The F-7 BGI training jet experienced a mechanical failure shortly after takeoff, with the pilot reportedly attempting to steer away from densely populated areas before ejecting. Tragically, the pilot later succumbed to his injuries. The aircraft struck a school building directly, igniting a massive fire that sent thick smoke billowing into the sky.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror and panic. A school teacher recounted hearing an explosion and seeing only fire and smoke. Among the victims was a third-grade student who was killed, while others aged 12, 14, and 40 were admitted to the hospital with critical injuries.
Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh's interim government, acknowledged the irreparable loss and promised a comprehensive investigation. A high-level military committee has been established to determine the precise cause of the crash.
The incident bears an eerie similarity to the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 241 lives just a month earlier. Emergency responders, including firefighters, military personnel, and medical teams, worked frantically to control the blaze and provide medical assistance to the injured.
Videos of the aftermath showed mangled aircraft remains, damaged building structures, and crowds watching in shock and disbelief. The crash has deeply traumatized the local community, raising serious questions about aviation safety and the risks of training flights near populated areas.
The government's declaration of a national day of mourning underscores the profound impact of this tragic accident, which has left numerous families devastated and a community in grief.
