When Missile Test Drones Become Toys, Deadly Mishap Is Not Far Away

These children are not playing with a toy, but a very sophisticated and deadly target drone. This is the remnant of a Meggitt Banshee drone that had reportedly been test-fired from missile testing centre in Chandipur of Balasore district.

As per reports, it was found by fishermen in Talapadapahi village situated near the testing centre. The fishermen then brought it back with them, to the village and now it has become a toy aircraft in the hands of the children. But these children are little aware that it is loaded with potentially dangerous substances.

Experts say that this drone has various circuits and fuses which can burst any moment without warning and pose a significant threat to human life. Sources said that after finding these broken missile parts, the villagers had informed the government officials to retrieve it, but to no avail.

Meanwhile, reports also informed that the villagers often bring these weapon parts to dismantle and sell expensive materials used in it.

However, such practice in the hope of earning some money might prove to be very costly, says former chief of Chandipur Missile testing facility, Colonel SK Samantaray.

It is pertinent to mention that last year in December, at Balipahi area near Chandipur, a big part of a test-fired missile had broken off and fallen in a nearby field. Later, ITR's disposal team had retrieved the same.

No damages or injuries were reported, since the missile had fallen in the middle of a field, away from human habitation.

Video Editor: Partha Narayan Das

Producer: Sanchita Mondal