Muzaffarpur: The rescue operation to remove the Air Force helicopter that crashed into the floodwaters in Madhuban Besi village, Aurai block, on October 2 is still ongoing. People from 10 nearby villages have been visiting the site daily, which has led to an unexpected increase in the income of local shopkeepers. Small businesses selling tea, snacks, and other items have seen a surge in demand as crowds gather to witness the stranded helicopter.
On Monday, a large number of villagers continued to gather at the site, standing on a nearby bridge to view the helicopter, until police dispersed them. The Air Force team has brought four trucks and is preparing to lift the helicopter using JCB equipment. It is expected to be removed within the next two days.
Local shops near the site have benefited from the increased foot traffic, with many setting up food stalls on the bridge. Sushil Bhandari, who usually cooks mid-day meals at a government school, has started preparing food for the policemen stationed at the scene, receiving payment in return.
Villagers from across the region, especially from 10 surrounding villages, have been making regular trips to see the helicopter. Shopkeepers at the nearby Besi market report an increase in sales as visitors buy snacks and drinks on their way back from the site.
