Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus urged doctors to consider the mental health impact of the Milestone School plane crash during his visit to the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute on Saturday night. Recognizing the trauma faced by both survivors and their families, Yunus emphasized the importance of addressing PTSD and called for a holistic approach to recovery, incorporating psychological support alongside physical treatment.
Upon arrival National Burn Institute’s Dr Nasiruddin informed him that the injured patients were receiving care based on a multidisciplinary consultation board’s advice, following international protocols. He added that, in addition to local doctors, foreign specialists were also being consulted to ensure the best possible care.
The report mentioned that, as of the latest assessment, there are four critical, nine severe, and 23 intermediate cases in the hospital. The situation is expected to change as the patients’ conditions evolve.
The tragic plane crash claimed the lives of Masuma Begum, 32, an office assistant, and Zarif Farhan, 13, a student at Milestone School, raising the death toll to 35. The crash, involving an Air Force F-7 fighter jet, occurred on July 21, 2025, when the aircraft crashed into the school building. This remains one of the deadliest military aviation accidents in the country’s history.
Following the incident, the interim government declared a day of national mourning. Yunus, during his visit, asked if there was any further equipment or supplies needed for the treatment of the injured. Dr Nasiruddin assured him that all necessary supplies were being provided, with additional equipment brought in by a team of Singaporean doctors.
The Chief Adviser also inquired about the coordination efforts and was informed that the initial confusion regarding the number of victims occurred due to the rapid transfer of patients to various hospitals. The director also highlighted the shortage of ambulances, a significant challenge that became apparent during the emergency.
Yunus emphasized the importance of mental health support for the victims’ families and recommended a collective initiative, involving experts, to ensure their psychological well-being. He also directed the hospital to ensure that the families of the injured and the victims of the Milestone School would receive adequate care and support.
The Chief Adviser thanked all medical staff for their dedication and also expressed gratitude to the international community for their support during this difficult time. Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum accompanied Yunus on the visit.
The situation at the burn institute continues to be dire, but efforts to provide comprehensive care and support remain ongoing.