A tragic scene unfolded in Dhaka on Monday after a Bangladesh Air Force training jet crashed into a school, killing at least 16 people and injuring more than 100 others, including many children and school staff.
The crash happened at Milestone School and College in Uttara, a northern suburb of the capital city, around early afternoon. Witnesses described a horrifying moment as the aircraft plummeted from the sky, striking the school compound with a loud explosion that sent flames and black smoke billowing into the air.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where chaos quickly set in. Many of the injured were burned or crushed in the collapse of school buildings and debris from the aircraft. At least 50 people, including children, were taken to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, according to hospital officials.
A Training Flight Gone Wrong
In a statement, the military confirmed that the jet involved was an F-7 BGI, a Chinese-made aircraft used for training missions. The plane reportedly took off at 1:06 p.m. local time and went down shortly after. Officials have not yet revealed the cause of the crash.
“Bangladesh Air Force’s F-7 BGI training aircraft crashed in Uttara,” the statement read.
The aircraft was believed to be flying over the city during a routine training exercise when it suddenly malfunctioned, leading to the fatal crash.
Government Response and Investigation
Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and promised a full investigation.
“Necessary measures will be taken to investigate the cause of this tragic accident and ensure all kinds of assistance to the affected families,” he told reporters.
President Yunus also praised the quick response of emergency teams, while urging the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.
Growing Questions and Public Outcry
As news spread, so did outrage and concern. Many are questioning why a training flight was conducted over such a heavily populated civilian area, especially near a school. The F-7, once considered reliable, has become outdated by modern standards and has been involved in other accidents globally.
The Bangladeshi Air Force has faced criticism in recent years over safety protocols and maintenance standards. Monday’s crash is likely to reignite debates around air safety regulations, especially when it comes to military operations in urban zones.
A Nation in Shock
Parents, teachers, and first responders are now left picking up the pieces of a tragedy that happened in a place meant to be safe and nurturing. The loss of life, particularly among children, has cast a dark cloud over the nation.
Vigils are already being organized across Dhaka, with hundreds expected to gather at Milestone School in memory of those lost.
This story is still developing. More updates will follow as official reports are released.
