Dhaka: A Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training aircraft crashed into the campus of Milestone College in Uttara, northern Dhaka, on Monday afternoon, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 100, according to local media reports. The incident occurred just minutes after the aircraft took off at 1:06 PM.
Eyewitnesses and school officials reported that the jet struck the roof of the school canteen while classes were in session. Shah Bulbul, a spokesperson for the school, stated that many students were inside when the crash occurred, and injured individuals were being rescued one by one. Video footage from the site showed plumes of thick smoke rising as fire crews battled the blaze and crowds gathered in shock.
The crash site, located in a densely populated residential area, was quickly surrounded by emergency responders, including firefighters who worked to contain the flames and search the wreckage. The plane reportedly struck the college gate before crashing into a building, causing significant structural damage.
The government of Bangladesh has declared a one-day state of mourning in response to the tragedy. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government, expressed deep sorrow and assured the public that a full investigation would be launched to determine the cause of the crash.
This incident comes shortly after a devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad that killed over 240 people, raising fresh concerns over air safety in South Asia.