ISLAMABAD: A Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad on Wednesday during take-off due to a technical fault, resulting in the martyrdom of all personnel on board, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
In a statement, the military’s media wing confirmed that there were no survivors in the tragic incident. Rescue and recovery teams were immediately dispatched to the crash site and commenced relief and recovery operations upon arrival.
The ISPR stated that a board of inquiry has been constituted to determine the exact technical cause of the accident.
“A board of inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the exact technical cause of the accident,” the statement said.
Following the incident, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, expressed profound grief and sorrow over the loss of lives.
The military leadership extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength and patience for them during this difficult time.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed deep sorrow over the helicopter crash, paying tribute to the martyred personnel and extending condolences to their families. He said the nation stands united with the bereaved families and honors the sacrifices of Pakistan’s brave soldiers.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief and sadness over the tragic accident, paying tribute to the personnel who embraced martyrdom in the line of duty. The prime minister prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs and for patience and fortitude for their families.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also conveyed his condolences, expressing solidarity with the families of the martyrs and describing the loss as a tragedy for the nation.
The Pakistan Army has launched an investigation into the incident, while rescue and recovery efforts continue at the crash site.
