A devastating tragedy unfolded in Bangladesh’s capital today when a military training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 170 others, including many children and teachers.
The aircraft, an F-7BGI fighter jet operated by the Bangladesh Air Force, reportedly took off from the nearby Kurmitola Air Base around 1:00 p.m. local time. Within minutes of departure, the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Md Towkir Islam, issued a mayday signal citing engine failure. Despite efforts to steer the aircraft away from populated areas, the jet lost control and slammed into school buildings, including a dormitory and canteen, erupting in a massive fireball.
Horrific Scene at the Campus
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and horror as the jet crashed during school hours, when hundreds of students were present on the campus. Teachers and staff acted swiftly, pulling injured children from the rubble, while fire and rescue teams battled thick black smoke and flames.
The pilot, who managed to eject seconds before impact, was found severely injured and later succumbed to his wounds, bringing the confirmed death toll to 20 as of Monday evening.
Massive Rescue Operation
Over 20 firefighting units, army medics, and emergency responders rushed to the scene. Students suffering burns and critical injuries were rushed to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Dhaka Medical College Hospital, and the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery.
Some were carried in the arms of civilians or taken in rickshaws due to ambulance shortages. Blood donation appeals were launched across Dhaka as the number of critical patients overwhelmed local hospitals.
Government Reaction and Mourning
The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow and announced a national day of mourning on Tuesday, July 22. Flags across the country will fly at half-mast, and special prayers will be held in schools and mosques.
"We have lost innocent lives in one of the darkest incidents in our recent memory. A full investigation will be launched to determine how such a tragedy occurred," Yunus said in a televised address.
Investigation Underway
Bangladesh Air Force has confirmed that a technical malfunction is the likely cause, but an official inquiry is ongoing. This is the third crash involving an F-7 series jet in the last decade, raising concerns about the aging aircraft’s safety and maintenance.
International aviation safety experts may be invited to assist in the investigation, as officials aim to determine if pilot error, mechanical failure, or operational lapses were to blame.
National Grief and Support
Condolences poured in from across the world, including messages from the UN Secretary-General and neighboring South Asian leaders. The Bangladesh Cricket Board also issued a statement expressing "profound sorrow" and canceled scheduled sporting events for the week.
Support groups and hotlines have been set up for families of victims, with schools across Dhaka placing counselors on alert for trauma support.