Ahmedabad Plane Crash: 19 Victims Identified Through DNA, Says Gujarat Minister

Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Gujarat Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi confirmed on Saturday that 19 victims of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash have been identified using DNA matching.

This step has brought some relief to families awaiting confirmation of their loved ones.

The London-bound Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 crashed on June 12, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

It plummeted into a densely populated area near Civil Hospital and BJ Medical College, killing over 270 people, including passengers, crew, and residents.

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the deceased. One passenger survived with injuries.

Forensic teams lead identification

Due to the severe impact, DNA testing became essential.

Experts from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) are spearheading the identification process.

Over 248 samples from relatives have been collected to aid matching.

Authorities have launched large-scale recovery operations.

A total of 164 teams, including medical and forensic staff, are working across BJ Medical College, its Trauma Centre, and postmortem facilities.

Another 192 ambulances and 591 personnel are handling body transport and logistics, while 230 individuals manage coordination across affected zones.

The crash damaged hostels near the medical college, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of resident doctors and their families.

More than 100 Indian Medical Association (IMA) doctors have joined the relief efforts.

A blood donation drive has collected over 1,300 units to support medical needs.

Investigation continues

Authorities are yet to determine the cause of the crash.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are probing possibilities ranging from mechanical failure to fuel contamination.

No official conclusions have been drawn yet.

While identification progresses, officials are prioritising dignified handling of remains and transparent investigation.

The tragic incident has united the city in grief, with ongoing efforts to bring closure and justice.

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