A Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government helicopter crashed on Friday, claiming the lives of three people during relief operations in flood-hit Bajaur.
Rescue officials said the chopper was heading to Jabrai in Salarzai tehsil, one of the hardest-hit areas, where flash floods the previous night had destroyed homes, swept away bridges, and cut off road access.
Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah confirmed the helicopter was on a mission to deliver aid and assist stranded residents. “The aircraft was en route to support rescue efforts when the accident occurred,” he stated.
The provincial government operates only two helicopters—one in Bajaur and the other in Buner—meaning the loss of the Bajaur chopper will likely slow ongoing relief operations in the area, where access remains difficult.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar emphasized that rescuing flood victims remains the top priority. He urged residents to stay cautious and instructed all MNAs, MPAs, provincial ministers, and local officials to remain in the affected areas until relief work is completed.
The crash comes amid the province’s most severe flooding in years, which has already killed over 110 people and caused widespread destruction across four districts.
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