Pune, 11 April 2026: A helicopter carrying Maharashtra’s Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Minister Chhagan Bhujbal made an incorrect landing in a parking area instead of a designated helipad in Khanwadi village of Purandar tehsil on Saturday, triggering panic among locals.
The incident occurred when Bhujbal arrived to attend a program organized on the occasion of Mahatma Phule Jayanti. Despite arrangements for a proper helipad, the pilot reportedly mistook an open parking space for the landing site and brought the helicopter down where vehicles were parked.
The unexpected landing caused confusion and fear among people present at the venue, especially as the area is close to residential zones. However, no injuries or damage were reported.
Police and officials quickly responded to the situation and guided the pilot to relocate the helicopter to the designated helipad. Bhujbal was unharmed and later attended the scheduled event.
Local residents expressed concern over the incident, saying such a mistake could have led to a serious accident. Authorities are now expected to conduct an inquiry to determine whether the helipad was clearly marked, if there were technical issues, or if the error was due to pilot misjudgment.
The incident has raised questions about safety protocols and coordination during VIP movements, with officials indicating that corrective steps will be taken to avoid similar lapses in the future.
