CDS chopper crash: 13 of 14 persons on board confirmed dead

Thirteen persons onboard the Mi17V5 helicopter, which crashed in Tamil Nadu’s Conoor, have been confirmed dead, news agency ANI has reported. The condition of General Bipin Rawat is not known.

As per the report one male survivor is being treated for severe burns. The identities of the bodies will be confirmed through DNA testing, said sources.

“An IAF Mi-17 V5 helicopter, with CDS Gen Bipin Rawat on board, met with an accident today near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. An Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident,” tweeted the Air Force.

The chopper crashed in a forest area, reportedly due to poor visibility following heavy fog, official sources said.

TV visuals showed the chopper in flames, apparently under the impact of the crash. Rescue personnel, along with Army personnel, were seen involved in clearing the area.