Peshawar – A government helicopter carrying relief goods to rain-hit areas crashed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing two pilots and three others on board.
The MI-17 helicopter, operated by the provincial government, had taken off from Peshawar for Bajaur but lost contact while flying over Mohmand tribal district. Provincial Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah confirmed that poor weather conditions led to the crash.
The tragedy comes as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reels under the impact of torrential rains that have triggered flash floods and landslides in several districts, leaving more than 100 people dead and many others injured or missing. Bajaur and Buner have been among the worst-hit areas.
Authorities said it was yet to be determined whether the crash was caused solely by weather or if other factors were involved. Rescue teams have been dispatched to the site, and the deceased will be accorded full state honours.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced a day of mourning across the province on Saturday. “The helicopter crew sacrificed their lives to save others — they are our true heroes,” he said.
The provincial government’s second helicopter remains engaged in relief and rescue operations in Buner district.
