Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: AP
On Monday afternoon, a Bangladesh Air Force training plane crashed into a school and college campus in Dhaka. The terrible accident led to the death of at least 27 people, and over 160 others were injured.
Where Did the Crash Happen?
The crash took place at Milestone School and College, located in the Uttara area of northern Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital city. This school has around 2,000 students, from elementary level up to twelfth grade.
Details About the Aircraft
The aircraft involved was an F-7 BGI, a training jet used by the Bangladesh Air Force. According to military officials, the plane took off at 1:06 p.m. local time (0706 GMT). Shortly after takeoff, it crashed into the school campus.
What Did the Military Say?
In an official statement, the military said:
“Bangladesh Air Force’s F-7 BGI training aircraft crashed in Uttara.”
This confirmed the type of plane and the location of the crash.
What Happened at the Scene?
After the crash, video clips and photos from the scene showed thick black smoke rising from the building. Many people were seen standing at a distance, shocked and scared. The aircraft hit the side of a school building, breaking iron grills and damaging walls.
Firefighters Arrive Quickly
Emergency workers rushed to the spot. Firefighters were seen using water hoses to put out the flames and cool down the wreckage. Their quick response helped stop the fire from spreading further.
Death Toll and Injuries
According to The Dhaka Tribune, the Director General of Fire Service and Civil Defence, Muhammad Jahed Kamal, said 19 bodies were recovered from the crash site. The total number of deaths later rose to 27, and 164 people were reported injured.
Condition of the Injured
Dr. Bidhan Sarker, the head of the burn unit at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, confirmed to Reuters that a third-grade student was brought in dead, and three other people, aged 12, 14, and 40, were admitted with serious injuries.
Teacher Describes the Moment
A local teacher named Masud Tarik was at the school when the crash happened. He said:
“I was picking up my kids and was near the gate. Suddenly, I heard an explosion. When I turned around, I saw fire and smoke everywhere.”
His experience shows just how sudden and terrifying the accident was.
Student Shares Her Fear
A student named Rafiqa Taha, who was not at school during the crash, said over the phone:
“I was terrified watching videos on TV. My God! It’s my school.”
Rafiqa is just 16 years old, and like many other students, she was deeply shaken by the incident.
Prime Minister Expresses Deep Sorrow
Interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus shared a message on Facebook, calling it “a moment of deep sorrow for the nation.” He expressed his sadness for the students, teachers, parents, and the Air Force, saying the loss was “irreparable.”
Government Will Investigate
The Prime Minister also promised a full investigation:
“Necessary measures will be taken to find out the cause of the crash and to provide all possible help to the affected people.”
One-Day State Mourning Declared
The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing declared a one-day state mourning on Tuesday. On this day, the national flag will fly at half-mast at all government and private offices, including Bangladeshi embassies around the world.
Political Party Offers Support
Leaders from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) also visited the crash site. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir met some of the injured people at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery.
On social media, the BNP posted:
“We are deeply heartbroken by the tragic aircraft crash at Milestone College. Let us come together, as a united nation, to face this tragedy with compassion and resolve.”
India’s Prime Minister Shares Condolences
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also posted a heartfelt message:
“Deeply shocked and saddened at the loss of lives, many of them young students, in a tragic air crash in Dhaka. Our hearts go out to the bereaved families. We pray for the swift recovery of those injured.”
He added that India stands with Bangladesh during this sad time and is ready to provide help if needed.
Rescue Work and Helicopters Used
Rescue operations were going on all day. Helicopters were used to carry some of the badly injured to hospitals. Photos from the site showed firemen standing near broken swings and wreckage, showing the extent of the destruction.
School Building Damaged
The crash destroyed part of the school building. Parents and local residents were shocked to see the damage. Some said they are now afraid to send their children back to the school. Authorities will inspect the building before it can reopen.
Questions About Flight Safety
People are now asking why a training jet was flying over a populated area. Many believe training flights should avoid schools and residential areas to prevent such tragedies in the future.
What Caused the Crash?
Investigators from the Air Force and government are now working to find the cause. They will check things like the aircraft’s maintenance, the pilot’s training, and if there were any technical problems.
Students and Families Traumatized
Many families are in deep pain after losing loved ones. Students who saw the crash or its aftermath are now traumatized. Mental health professionals may be needed to help them recover from this emotional shock.
A Nation in Grief, A Call for Unity
This tragic accident has touched the hearts of people across Bangladesh and beyond. As the nation mourns, there is also hope that authorities will take steps to prevent such a disaster from happening again.
The crash of the Bangladesh Air Force’s training jet into a school has left a deep wound in the nation. The country now waits for answers and healing, while remembering the 27 lives lost and praying for the recovery of over 160 injured.
English
