By The Sampadak Express
In the aftermath of the devastating Air India crash that occurred on June 12, authorities have successfully identified 32 victims so far, with 14 bodies already handed over to their families. The tragic accident involved an Air India 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing most onboard.
Additional Medical Superintendent of BJ Medical College, Rajnish Patel, confirmed on Sunday that 31 of the identified bodies were matched using DNA sampling, while 14 families, hailing from various parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, have already taken their loved ones home. “Our teams have coordinated with the families and made necessary travel arrangements for them,” Patel stated.
In addition to these, eight bodies were identified through visual confirmation, eliminating the need for DNA testing, and have been returned to their kin.
The identification process continues, with the DNA profiling of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani still underway. “The DNA results are still pending,” Patel added.
The ill-fated flight was bound for London’s Gatwick Airport and carried 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, one Canadian, and 12 crew members. Only one passenger miraculously survived after the aircraft lost altitude within 33 seconds of takeoff and crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex. Several medical students are believed to be among the deceased.
Currently, 13 injured passengers remain under treatment at the hospital.
BJ Medical College Dean Minakshi Parekh informed on Saturday that some family members are yet to arrive for the DNA sampling. “Three families from the UK and one from India are expected to reach Ahmedabad shortly. Our forensic science teams are working round-the-clock to match DNA samples, and we aim to release reports for 10 to 20 samples daily,” Parekh explained.
Parekh further detailed the complex DNA profiling process for the charred remains: “We extract tissue from bones and teeth to conduct DNA tests. While immediate relatives get faster results, identifying distant relatives may take more time. However, we are committed to ensuring that every victim is identified and returned to their families for a dignified funeral.”
To facilitate the return of the bodies, hospital authorities have arranged coffins and converted a large hall at BJ Medical College into a DNA sample collection centre. As more relatives gather at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital’s mortuary, the district administration has also set up tents to accommodate grieving families.
Authorities continue to extend full support to the bereaved families, providing them with accommodation, transportation, and assistance during this tragic time.
