Anil Kumar Singh, a 58‑year‑old resident of Parshurampur village, was killed when a relief packet dropped from a helicopter struck him on the head, the accident occurring at 3:30 p.m. on Friday near a relief camp set up to aid flood‑affected families in Saran district. The packet fell from low‑flying aircraft, according to SDPO Savindra Kumar Das, who said the body was taken to a nearby hospital for a post‑mortem while the police launched an inquiry.
SHO Vimlesh Kumar added that no visible injury marks were found on Singh's body and that villagers claimed the man died after being struck by the packet. He also mentioned a separate incident in which a low‑flying helicopter blew a tin shed away, injuring a woman in her leg, who has since been treated.
The helicopter was part of a relief operation coordinated by the Bihar Disaster Management Authority after monsoon floods left thousands stranded. Authorities have yet to confirm which aircraft was involved or why it was flying at a low altitude.
The autopsy report, expected within 48 hours, will determine whether the packet caused a fatal head injury or if other factors contributed. The investigation may lead to a review of helicopter drop protocols in the state.
The incident underscores the risks of aerial relief distribution in disaster zones, prompting calls from local officials for stricter safety checks and better communication with ground teams.