Dhaka School Remembers 36 Lives Lost in Tragic Jet Crash Anniversary
A year has passed since a Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka, claiming 36 lives. On Monday, the institution held a special program to remember those who died, including 28 students and the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Md Towkir Islam.
The prayer and remembrance event took place at the school’s Diabari campus in Uttara. Sixteen other branches of Milestone School and College also observed similar programs across the city. Students, teachers, and staff gathered to honor the victims and offer prayers for the injured.
Principal Jahangir Alam Khan spoke at the Diabari campus, highlighting the importance of remembering the students who lost their lives. He shared that prayers were offered for the eternal peace of the deceased and for the full recovery of everyone hurt in the accident.
The school has organized a two-day commemoration. Following Monday’s prayer service, the crash site itself will open to the public on Tuesday. Scout and Rover members will present a guard of honor there. Attendees will lay flowers, observe a minute of silence, and participate in a remembrance session. The event will also feature photographs of the victims and memorial writings from their friends. Parents are expected to attend.
Eighth-grade student Surjo Somoy Bishwas, who was there during the crash, shared his experience. He recalled being trapped with classmates in a second-floor room. Flames, thick smoke, and the cries of injured friends created a terrifying scene. Teachers worked to break iron window grilles to help them. Surjo later guided his classmates to safety, following signals from rescuers outside. He ended by saying he would never forget his lost classmates.
The tragic incident occurred on July 21 last year. Many of those who were injured are still recovering and have not yet returned to their normal lives. The anniversary serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of that day.
