Islamabad, September 28, 2024 – A tragic helicopter crash in North Waziristan on Saturday afternoon claimed the lives of at least six people, with eight others suffering injuries. The helicopter, operated by Mari Petroleum, one of Pakistan’s leading oil and gas exploration companies, went down due to an engine malfunction, according to initial reports.
A spokesperson from Mari Petroleum confirmed the crash, stating that the helicopter encountered a technical fault in its engine while flying over a remote area of North Waziristan. “The helicopter had four individuals on board, including three Russian pilots and a Pakistani crew member,” the spokesperson added. Despite the immediate response, all four occupants were among those who lost their lives in the tragic incident.
The crash site, located in a rugged and inaccessible part of North Waziristan, required swift action by rescue teams. Emergency personnel were promptly dispatched to the scene, where they worked to retrieve both the deceased and the injured. Local authorities reported that the six survivors were rushed to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment.
The identities of the deceased and injured individuals have not yet been released, pending notification of their families. Authorities have expressed their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
“The exact cause of the engine malfunction remains unknown at this time,” said the Mari Petroleum spokesperson. “Our technical teams are working closely with relevant authorities to determine what went wrong.” The company has vowed to provide full cooperation in the investigation and ensure that all safety protocols are reviewed and reinforced.
The crash has cast a shadow over the oil and gas sector, where helicopter operations are frequently used to transport personnel and equipment to remote sites. Mari Petroleum, a major player in Pakistan’s energy industry, has a longstanding record of safe aviation practices, making this incident particularly concerning for the company and the industry at large.
In the aftermath of the crash, local authorities have heightened safety measures in the region to prevent any further incidents. Investigators from civil aviation and other relevant authorities are expected to arrive at the crash site soon to collect evidence and begin their inquiry.
This tragic accident has raised questions about the safety of helicopter operations in Pakistan’s volatile and remote regions, and whether further safety protocols may need to be implemented. The investigation’s findings will be awaited with concern by both the industry and the public.
