A tragic accident in Dhaka has left families devastated and a nation in mourning.
A Bangladesh Air Force training jet crashed into a school building in Dhaka on Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring 171 others, according to local officials. The crash occurred at Milestone School and College, located north of the capital’s international airport and close to a military air base.
“Most of the wounded were children,” said an aide to interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus, adding that 25 remain in critical condition.
📍 What Happened
The aircraft took off from a nearby military air base before it veered off course due to what officials described as a mechanical failure. The jet crashed into the second floor of the school, which housed third and fourth grade classrooms.
The pilot, who was killed in the crash, reportedly attempted to steer the aircraft toward a less populated area to avoid a greater catastrophe.
📸 Eyewitness Accounts
“I saw the windows of the aircraft shattered, and it was burning up in flames, with black smoke rising into the sky,” said Emon Islam, a nearby high school student who witnessed the crash.
Scenes of chaos unfolded as emergency responders, teachers, and local residents rushed to rescue injured children from the wreckage.
🧑🏫 About the School
Milestone School and College serves students from elementary through high school. The building was heavily damaged, and classes have been suspended until further notice.
Families gathered outside local hospitals in tears, waiting for news about their children. Authorities have mobilized emergency services and grief counseling teams across the city.
🛠️ Cause Under Investigation
A military spokesperson confirmed that a mechanical malfunction was the likely cause of the accident. A full investigation has been launched.
This tragedy has renewed scrutiny of Bangladesh’s military aviation safety protocols, especially concerning training flights over urban areas.
🕯️ Global Reactions and Support
Leaders from neighboring countries and international humanitarian organizations have expressed condolences. The Bangladeshi public is calling for accountability, support for affected families, and tighter flight regulations near schools and civilian zones.
“This is a national tragedy. We are heartbroken,” said a statement from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education.
By ✍️ Yorlinda Ramìrez- MicuPost Team
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