Helicopter crashes in Ghor and Kabul raise safety concerns

An MI 17 military helicopter crashed into the Ferozkoh-Herirud River on Wednesday morning, resulting in fatalities and injuries. The helicopter was on a rescue mission in Ghor to retrieve bodies from the Harirod river when it experienced technical difficulties and attempted an emergency landing in Ferozkoh, ultimately crashing into a wall. The incident led to one fatality and 12 injuries, with casualties taken to a local hospital in Ghor for treatment.

Following the withdrawal of the US and its allies from Afghanistan and the Taliban's takeover in August 2021, abandoned military equipment has posed challenges. The operational status and necessary expertise for maintaining and operating this equipment remain uncertain, leading to incidents like the recent crash of a US-made Black Hawk helicopter during a Taliban training exercise in Kabul. This crash resulted in three fatalities and additional injuries due to technical issues.

Images from the scene depict the wreckage of the helicopter by the river and a crowd of concerned bystanders. The aftermath of such incidents underscores the importance of proper maintenance and training for handling military equipment to prevent further tragedies.

The recent helicopter crashes in Ghor and Kabul highlight the risks associated with operating military equipment without adequate maintenance and expertise. It is crucial for authorities to prioritize the safety of personnel by ensuring proper training and upkeep of equipment. These incidents serve as reminders of the importance of diligence and caution in handling complex machinery to avoid unnecessary loss of life.