Day of Mourning Declared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa After Flood Tragedy and Helicopter Crash

Peshawar: Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, has declared a province-wide day of mourning on Saturday following the deaths of over 200 people due to torrential rains and flooding, as well as the martyrdom of five individuals in a tragic rescue helicopter crash in Bajaur.
As part of the mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across the province.
Since August 14, relentless rainfall has triggered severe flooding in various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, leading to widespread devastation. More than 200 people have lost their lives, dozens remain missing, and numerous homes have been destroyed.
In response, the provincial government launched large-scale rescue operations. During one such mission, a government rescue helicopter crashed in Bajaur, resulting in the martyrdom of three pilots and two crew members.
Chief Minister Gandapur expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and stated that the sacrifices made by the helicopter crew while trying to save others would be remembered as heroic acts. “These are our real heroes, and their sacrifice will be written in golden words in history,” he said.
Rescue teams were dispatched to the crash site, and the martyrs will be laid to rest with full state honors. The Chief Minister also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and pledged full support during this difficult time.