Fire Spread So Fast, No One Could Be Saved: Amit Shah On AI-171 Crash

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the press on the ongoing developments following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad.

The Minister confirmed that the bodies of the passengers have nearly been recovered, and DNA samples from their families are currently being collected to aid identification.

“The DNA sampling process will be completed in the next 2-3 hours,” Shah stated. He added that over 1,000 DNA samples will be taken in Gujarat alone.

He also reassured the families of foreign nationals on board, stating that their DNA samples would be collected once their relatives arrive in India.

Fire spread rapidly; rescue efforts hindered

Shah detailed the severity of the crash. He highlighted that the high temperatures from the burning fuel left little chance of survival.

The Minister said, “The fire spread so rapidly that no one could be saved.” Shah further underlined the extreme conditions faced by the rescue teams.

The Home Minister also explained that the initial moments after the crash were crucial. The immediate inferno made any rescue operations nearly impossible.

The Minister further emphasised that despite the devastation, Gujarat has the capacity to handle the large number of DNA tests required for the investigation.

The Home Minister expressed the nation’s collective grief, stating that the entire country is mourning the loss of lives. He assured the victims’ families of the government’s unwavering support during this difficult time.

Also Read: Air India CEO Expresses Grief Over AI 171 Plane Crash; Vows Full Support To Victims’ Families