A 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 said the tragic accident occurred due to a technical fault, and there were no survivors.
According to ISPR, the Mi-17 helicopter was involved in a crash shortly after take-off near Muzaffarabad. Initial information indicates that the aircraft developed a technical fault during the take-off phase, leading to the accident.
The military confirmed that all personnel aboard the helicopter embraced martyrdom.
Rescue teams rushed to crash site
ISPR said rescue and recovery teams immediately reached the crash site following the accident. Emergency responders launched rescue and recovery operations as soon as information about the crash was received.
However, the military confirmed that no one survived the incident.
Inquiry ordered into technical fault
To determine the exact cause of the accident, a board of inquiry has been ordered. According to ISPR, the investigation will focus on identifying the precise technical fault that led to the helicopter crash.
The findings of the inquiry are expected to help establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
PM, Army 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 has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic helicopter crash. Paying tribute to the personnel martyred in the accident, the PM said the entire nation salutes the sacrifices of its brave sons.
He prayed for the elevation of the martyrs' ranks and extended his heartfelt condolences to their families, asking Allah to grant them patience and strength in this difficult time.
