PESHAWAR – A government MI-17 helicopter crashed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Friday while delivering relief supplies to flood-affected areas of Bajaur.
All five crew members, including two pilots, were killed in the accident, officials confirmed.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur said the crash occurred in the Pandiyali area of Mohmand district due to adverse weather conditions. The helicopter was part of ongoing rescue operations responding to heavy monsoon rains in northern Pakistan.
The monsoon floods have caused widespread devastation across the province, destroying homes, roads, and essential infrastructure. Thousands of families have been displaced, with many trapped in remote areas. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (KP) has been coordinating emergency assistance to reach affected communities.
Authorities have declared a day of mourning in KP. The national flag will fly at half-mast, and the fallen crew members are set to receive full state honors. Gandapur described the crew as “heroes who sacrificed their lives to save others.”
Authorities have urged caution while emphasizing the dedication of teams working tirelessly to reach stranded and vulnerable residents affected by rising waters, destroyed homes, and damaged infrastructure across the region.
Despite the helicopter crash, authorities say relief efforts will continue, including the delivery of food, medicine, and emergency supplies. The loss of the aircraft has been a setback, but officials remain committed to supporting flood-hit communities.
