By The Sampadak Express
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site of the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on Friday, where at least 265 people lost their lives in one of India’s worst aviation disasters in recent years. Following his visit, PM Modi chaired a high-level review meeting with Gujarat government and central officials to assess ongoing rescue and relief operations.
The Crash: Boeing Dreamliner Falls Moments After Takeoff
The catastrophe unfolded on Thursday afternoon when Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner (registration VT-ANB), crashed moments after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The London-bound aircraft, carrying 242 people including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, lost altitude rapidly and crashed into the BJ Medical College and Civil Hospital complex in Meghaninagar, bursting into flames upon impact.
Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Only one passenger, identified as Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, seated in 11A, survived the horrific accident. His brother, who was traveling with him, was among those killed.
PM Modi Chairs High-Level Review Meeting
Following his visit to the crash site and Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, PM Modi convened a detailed review meeting at the GujSail building near the airport. Officials briefed him on the sequence of events, the scale of devastation, and the current status of rescue and identification efforts.“
We are all devastated by the air tragedy in Ahmedabad. The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and heart-breaking manner is beyond words. Condolences to all the bereaved families. We understand their pain and also know that the void left behind will be felt for years to come. Om Shanti,” PM Modi posted on X.
The Prime Minister directed officials to expedite DNA-based identification of victims and ensure comprehensive support to the families affected. He also emphasized the need for long-term rehabilitation and care for survivors and families of the deceased.
The review meeting was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Paatil, Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, and senior bureaucrats from various agencies involved in the relief efforts.
Severe Ground Impact
The crash not only claimed lives on board but also caused widespread casualties on the ground. According to the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), five MBBS students, a postgraduate doctor, and the wife of a senior doctor from BJ Medical College were among the dead. Over 60 medical students suffered injuries, many of whom are still receiving treatment.
Authorities revealed that several bodies were charred beyond recognition, making identification challenging. DNA sampling is underway to identify many of the victims.
Victims Include Foreign Nationals
The passenger manifest included 168 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. The flight was headed for London Gatwick when the tragedy occurred.
Massive Rescue and Compensation Efforts
Emergency teams from CISF, NDRF, and local agencies responded quickly to the scene. Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran announced a compensation package of ₹1 crore for the families of each victim. Multiple helplines were set up by Air India, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ahmedabad Police, and the British government to assist families.
Flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport resumed by Thursday evening. Indian Railways also arranged special Vande Bharat trains to facilitate transportation for stranded passengers and relatives.
Worst Aviation Disaster Since 2020
This is the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in India and the most severe air disaster since the 2020 Air India Express crash in Kozhikode. Investigators are currently searching for the aircraft’s black box to determine the cause of the crash. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the aircraft was carrying nearly 1.25 lakh litres of fuel, contributing to the intense fire and extreme heat that left little chance of survival.
The government has pledged full support for the affected families as investigation and relief operations continue.
