Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis survives chopper crash in Latur

Our helicopter did meet with an accident in Latur but me and my team is absolutely safe and ok.
Nothing to worry.

— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) May 25, 2017

The minister was equipped with six other members in the team and two crew members. ” The chopper crashed within minutes after the take off. As the chopper had not attained much height, major accident was averted,” one of the team members said.

Fadnavis was accompanied by Pravin Parrdeshi, principal secretary,Forests , Maharashtra Government. The CM also released a video assuring of the safety of his team.

“Fortunately, I have the blessings of more than 11 crore people of Maharashtra so I have escaped without any injuries,” speaking to NDTV he said. He also said that his vitals have been checked and that he is stable.

At the scene of the chopper crash. (Express photo)

Fadnavis has said there will be the regular DGCA inquiry in the incident. “It was new helicopter, only 6-7 years old. It can be counted among the good helicopters. The DGCA will inquire into the incident,” he said.

“Once again, I’m saying, there’s no reason for anyone to worry. I’m absolutely fine,” he said.

“Maharashtra Government Sikorsky helicopter VT-CMM took off from Nilanda SE of Latur at 12 pm. There were 6 persons on board including 2 crew members. Honorable CM of Maharashtra was also on board,” a senior official of Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said.

” After take-off, pilot found variable wind pattern. Pilot decided to land back. During landing, the helicopter got entangled in wires. The helicopter has sustained susbtantial damage. All 06 persons are safe and escaped unhurt. Spoke to commander of the flight as well as Hon’ble CM. Both informed well being of all occupants,” he added

At the site of the crash in Latur. (Express)

Earlier in May, Fadnavis had to travel by road from the naxal affected Gadchiroli district to Nagpur after his chopper developed a technical snag before take off, police said.

With ENS inputs