Air Force rescues children trapped on tank in UP, one dead

May 3, 2026

In a tragic accident in Siddharthnagar, UP, five children climbed a 60-foot-high dilapidated water tank to make reels. While descending, the ladder suddenly broke, causing three children to fall. Of these, 12-year-old Bale died on the spot, while two others were seriously injured.

Two children stuck on tank for 16 hours
During the accident, two children got stuck on top and managed to climb back onto the tank by grabbing an iron rod. They remained trapped on the tank for about 16 hours. During this time, the administration and local people provided them with food and water via rope.

Swamps and bad weather hindered rescue operations
The marshy terrain surrounding the tank posed significant challenges in the rescue operation. A hydraulic crane was called in, but it couldn’t reach the site. Work began to build a road to the tank using JCB and Poclain machines, but heavy rain at night halted the work.

Rescue by Air Force MI-17 Helicopter
Seeing the situation worsening, the administration enlisted the help of the Air Force. On Sunday morning, an Air Force MI-17 helicopter arrived at the scene and safely rescued the two children, who were admitted to the Air Force Hospital in Gorakhpur.

Dilapidated Tank Closed for 26 Years
It is reported that the tank on which the children climbed had been closed for the past 26 years and was in a very dilapidated condition. Despite this, there were no warning signs or safety measures in place, leading to this accident.