Metro53 - MUZAFFARABAD: A Pakistan Army Aviation MI-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday after reportedly developing a technical fault during take-off, resulting in the martyrdom of all personnel on board. According to the military's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), there were no survivors.
Initial reports identified the deceased among the helicopter crew and military personnel, including senior officers. Rescue and recovery teams were dispatched immediately to the crash site, while the bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital. Witnesses said the aircraft went down moments after take-off.
The ISPR stated that the helicopter crashed due to a technical malfunction and announced the formation of a board of inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior military leadership expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and paid tribute to the fallen personnel for their service and sacrifice in the line of duty.
The nation mourns the loss of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives while serving the country. Funeral arrangements and further details regarding the victims are expected to be announced by the military authorities.
