On July 21, 2025, a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka’s Uttara neighborhood, causing a deafening explosion and engulfing the area in flames and smoke. The disaster claimed 31 lives, including 25 children, and injured 171 others, mostly students. Amid the chaos, 10-year-old Rubaida Noor Alvira, a fourth-grader, displayed remarkable courage to survive the tragedy.Alvira’s Brave Escape
Rubaida Noor Alvira, the eldest daughter of businessman Md. Jasim Uddin and Nahida Islam from the BGB Camp area in Cox’s Bazar, was in class when the jet crashed into the school’s two-story building. Witnesses described a scene of panic as smoke and fire spread rapidly. Amid the chaos, Alvira grabbed the hand of a senior student, pleading, “Bhaiya, please hold me. I’m falling.” Her quick thinking and composure saved her life, though she sustained burns on 10% of her body and deep facial injuries.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
Immediately after the crash, Alvira was rushed from one hospital to another before being admitted to the Sheikh Hasina National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute. On Tuesday, July 22, doctors performed successful surgeries on her hand and face. According to medical staff, Alvira is now out of danger and is receiving treatment in Ward 520, Bed 21. Her condition is stable, offering hope for recovery.
Family and Community Support
Alvira’s father, Jasim Uddin, said with a trembling voice, “My daughter is alive by the grace of Allah. I’m proud of her intelligence and courage. I only ask for prayers so she can smile again and return to school.” Known for her academic excellence and gentle demeanor, Alvira has become a symbol of resilience. Relatives, neighbors, classmates, and the Cox’s Bazar community are praying for her speedy recovery. Jasim added, “Please pray for Alvira. May we overcome this horrific time.”
Details of the Crash
The F-7 BGI jet took off from the Bangladesh Air Force Base in Uttara at 1:06 p.m. and crashed shortly after due to a mechanical failure. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Mohammed Toukir Islam, attempted to steer the aircraft away from densely populated areas but struck the school’s building, triggering a massive fire. The crash killed 31 people, including 25 children, and left 171 injured. Currently, 78 victims remain hospitalized at the National Burn Institute, with 10 in critical condition. The government declared a national day of mourning on Tuesday, and a high-level committee was formed to investigate the incident.
