An Indian Coast Guard Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv tragically crashed in Gujarat’s Porbandar during a routine training sortie on Sunday. The incident resulted in the loss of all three crew members on board.

The crash occurred at 12:10 pm near the Coast Guard Air Enclave in Porbandar. According to officials, the helicopter experienced technical difficulties, leading to the accident. Superintendent of Police Bhagirathsinh Jadeja confirmed the chopper caught fire near the runway, but the blaze was brought under control with a fire tender.

Kamala Baug police station’s inspector, Rajesh Kanmiya, stated, “Two crew members were declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, while the third succumbed later.”

The crew members, severely burned in the crash, were immediately evacuated to a nearby hospital. The Indian Coast Guard has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

The incident raises concerns as the ALH Dhruv fleet recently underwent critical safety upgrades following a series of accidents last year. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) addressed design issues, upgrading the fleet’s control systems to enhance airworthiness.

Despite these efforts, the Dhruv fleet has faced repeated safety challenges. Last September, another ALH Mk-III crashed into the Arabian Sea near Porbandar during a medical evacuation mission. That incident prompted the Coast Guard to temporarily ground its ALH fleet for a comprehensive safety inspection.

The ALH Dhruv involved in the September crash had previously played a vital role in rescue operations during Gujarat floods. It saved 67 lives during cyclonic weather in the region, showcasing its capability despite its troubled safety record.

This tragic accident highlights the ongoing safety challenges with the ALH Dhruv fleet, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The Indian Coast Guard and relevant authorities are committed to ensuring a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made headlines on Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test as his animated reactions highlighted the frustration with his team’s performance. Despite a strong start by the Indian bowlers, they allowed the Australian tailenders to mount a significant resistance, turning the momentum in favor of the hosts.

Rohit’s frustration was evident during a drinks break when he had an intense chat with Mohammed Siraj. The moment went viral on social media, showing the captain’s animated gestures as he addressed Siraj and possibly Akash Deep. The conversation came after Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc had steadied the Australian innings, with Cummins surviving 61 balls.

Commentator Ricky Ponting speculated on Rohit’s message during the break, saying, “It looks like Rohit was addressing Siraj and Akash Deep, signaling to them that it’s their turn to step up. He seemed to be pushing them not to rely solely on Bumrah and to take responsibility.”

India initially had the upper hand, reducing Australia to 91/6, thanks to brilliant spells by Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj. However, the lower order, including Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland, dug in to push Australia’s lead to 333 by stumps, with the score at 228/9.

Fielding Woes: Yashasvi Jaiswal Faces Rohit Sharma’s Wrath

Adding to India’s woes, young fielder Yashasvi Jaiswal endured a tough day, dropping three crucial catches. Rohit’s frustration boiled over after Jaiswal missed a tricky chance to dismiss Usman Khawaja, followed by a dropped catch of Marnus Labuschagne. Later, Jaiswal missed another opportunity to dismiss Pat Cummins off Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling.

Rohit’s visible displeasure, including throwing his hands in the air, underscored the pressure India faced. These dropped chances allowed Australia to extend their innings, with Nathan Lyon contributing a resilient 41 runs and Scott Boland surviving 65 balls.

Bumrah and Siraj Shine Despite Challenges

Despite the setbacks, Bumrah led the bowling attack with four wickets, while Siraj claimed three crucial scalps to dismantle Australia’s top and middle order. However, the inability to finish off the tail frustrated the visitors and left them with a steep challenge heading into the final days.

India will need to regroup quickly as they face a daunting target and mounting pressure to avoid conceding the advantage in this pivotal match.