Jharkhand air ambulance crash: Family took Rs 2 lakh loan to book Rs 8 lakh aircraft; to save 1, 7 died in tragedy
Times of India
by VISHVENDU JAIPURIARFebruary 24, 2026
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An air ambulance crash in Jharkhand’s Chatra district has claimed the lives of seven family members, including Sanjay Kumar, his wife Archana Devi, and their teenage nephew Dhruv Kumar. The tragedy occurred while they were en route to Delhi for advanced treatment after Sanjay suffered severe burn injuries from a hotel fire. Despite taking out a Rs 2 lakh loan to charter the costly air ambulance, which was delayed due to financial constraints, all seven on board perished in the crash.
Sanjay, a hardworking hotel operator, had recently been severely injured in a fire incident at his roadside hotel. His family borrowed money and pooled resources to arrange the expensive medical transfer, hoping it would save his life. However, their desperation for treatment turned into grief as the air ambulance crashed, leaving behind a village in mourning.
The family’s history of tragedy dates back to 2004 when Sanjay’s father was allegedly killed by Maoists. After relocating, Sanjay took over the family business and worked tirelessly to rebuild their lives. His children, Shivam and Shubham, are now orphaned, adding to the family’s unbearable loss.
The incident highlights the harsh realities faced by small businesses struggling during lockdowns and the immense financial burden of medical emergencies in India. It raises questions about the safety standards of air ambulances and the challenges families face when seeking critical care for loved ones.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026