Bangladesh Jet Crash: Tragedy at Milestone School in Dhaka
What Happened?
On July 21, 2025, Bangladesh Jet Crash , a routine afternoon in Dhaka turned tragic. A Bangladesh Air Force training jet, model F-7 BGI crashed into the Milestone School and College in Uttara, a northern neighbourhood of the capital. The crash happened shortly after the plane took off for a training exercise and experienced technical problems.
- Time of crash: Around 1:15 PM (local time)
- Location: Milestone School and College, Uttara, Dhaka
- Aircraft: F-7 BGI fighter jet
- Pilot: Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam was flying the aircraft and died in the crash.
The Impact: Heartbreaking Loss
The accident caused severe loss and pain:
- Death toll: At least 19-20 people lost their lives, including the pilot, 16 children (many primary school students), and two teachers.
- Injured: More than 170 people were injured, and at least 8 remain in critical condition.
- Type of injuries: Many victims suffered burns and trauma.
- Casualty locations: Victims were students in classes 1 to 7, teachers, and staff present in the building during class time.
What Did Eyewitnesses See?
Chaos broke out within seconds of the crash:
- Loud explosion and flames covered classrooms and corridors.
- Smoke filled the air, making it hard to see or breathe.
- Teachers, students, and staff ran for safety, some carrying injured children on rickshaws and vans to the nearest hospitals.
- Many survivors describe seeing friends and classmates injured, and the pain of not being able to help everyone.
Heroic Actions
The pilot, despite technical failure, tried to steer the aircraft away from crowded residential areas to avoid more deaths. Sadly, he could not avoid the school building, and he was killed in the crash.
Emergency Response
Help arrived quickly:
- Firefighters, military, police, and Border Guard Bangladesh rushed to the scene.
- Ambulances and Air Force helicopters worked together to move the wounded to nearby hospitals.
- Massive rescue operations continued for hours, with responders going room-to-room.
Aftermath and Grief
The tragedy shook the whole country:
- The government declared a national day of mourning. Flags were flown at half-mast, and prayers were held nationwide.
- Political leaders, including Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed deep condolences.
- Parents, teachers, and community members gathered in shock, grief, and solidarity outside the school and hospitals.
- Many families lost children. Survivors are receiving care at several hospitals, with special teams for burn and trauma treatment.
Investigation: Seeking Answers
Authorities have started an official investigation:
- An expert committee was formed by the Bangladesh Air Force to find out the exact cause of the crash.
- Early statements suggest a sudden mechanical failure, but details will be released after a full technical review.
- The government promised all kinds of support to those affected.
Community & Global Support
- Numerous local citizens, NGOs, and international agencies offered help and support.
- India publicly offered technical and medical assistance, and support came from various countries and organizations.
- Mental health care is also being provided for survivors and families coping with trauma and loss.
Remembering the Victims
This accident was more than just numbers:
- Each child, teacher, and the pilot had dreams, families, and hopes for a better future.
- Stories of bravery, friendship, and loss have touched the hearts of people across Bangladesh and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
| What caused the crash? | Preliminary reports point to a technical/mechanical fault in the jet. |
| Was the pilot hurt? | Yes, the pilot, Flight Lt. Towkir Islam, died in the crash. |
| How many were hurt? | Over 170 people were injured, many with burns and trauma. |
| What has the government done? | Declared a day of mourning, started an investigation, and offered full support. |
| Who is helping survivors? | Firefighters, police, doctors, mental health professionals, and community groups. |
| Will the school reopen? | The campus is closed for investigation and recovery efforts. |
Conclusion
The Bangladesh jet crash on July 21, 2025, is a day that will never be forgotten in the hearts of many. As families grieve and the nation mourns, efforts continue to heal wounds—both seen and unseen. The courage shown by the pilot, teachers, students, and rescue workers shines through the darkness of this tragedy, reminding us all of the preciousness of life and the strength of communities in times of sorrow.
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