Ootty: Seven killed in helicopter crash chief defence Staff Bipin Rawat is reported to be in critical condition. The accident took place at 12.20 pm in Coonoor near Ooty. Bipin Rawat’s wife Madhulika Rawat is reported dead.
The Air Force’s Mi-17 helicopter crashed. Four bodies were found burnt. Survivors were reported seriously injured. Seven of the injured were taken to hospital. Fourteen people, including Bipin Rawat and his family, were reportedly on board the helicopter. Although the hill was sloping, the accident took place close to the populated area. The helicopter was on fire as soon as it crashed. The area has been on fire for a long time. The locals came and started the rescue operation. Meanwhile, firefighters and police arrived. Rescue work is in progress. The cause of the accident is not clear. The Air Force has ordered an investigation. The trip was to attend a ceremony at Wellington College. The Air Force MI17 V5 helicopter was involved in the accident. Heavy snowfall in the area. It is learned that he was flying back without landing due to bad weather.
