PM Narendra Modi on Friday visited the site of the Air India Dreamliner crash and met with the injured at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, calling the incident one of the most heartbreaking aviation tragedies in recent times.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 was operating as Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. It crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday afternoon. The tragedy claimed 241 lives, including 230 passengers, 10 crew members, and two pilots.
The aircraft fell into a residential complex near BJ Medical College, claiming more lives on the ground and leaving a trail of devastation.
“We are all devastated by the air tragedy in Ahmedabad. The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and heartbreaking 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 wrote on X after visiting both the crash site and hospital.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, and Union Minister CR Paatil received Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon his arrival at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport.
The PM then headed directly to the crash site in Meghaninagar, where officials briefed him on the ongoing recovery and investigation efforts.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Visited the crash site in Ahmedabad today. The scene of devastation is saddening. Met officials and teams working tirelessly in the aftermath. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy.”
At Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, PM Modi met the sole survivor of the crash, Indian-origin British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, seated in seat 11A and is currently under medical care.
Prime Minister Modi also interacted with other individuals injured on the ground when the aircraft crashed into a hostel building.
The Prime Minister, who led Gujarat for 12 years as Chief Minister. He first expressed his condolences on Thursday, calling the tragedy ‘heartbreaking beyond words’.
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected,” PM Modi posted on X.
Authorities describe the disaster as one of the worst in India’s aviation history and have launched a full investigation into it.
A team of forensic experts is actively collecting evidence from the crash site. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will, however, lead the probe in accordance with international aviation protocols.
Union Minister Naidu, who visited the crash site on Thursday, confirmed that the AAIB is coordinating with multiple agencies to ensure a thorough inquiry into the incident.
Also Read: IGIA Issues Advisory For Iran, Iraq Travellers As Tensions Rise In Middle East
PM Modi pays tribute to Bhupen Hazarika, Zubeen Garg, and SL Bhyrappa in ‘Mann Ki…
India is accelerating its green hydrogen ambitions under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, with S&P…
India’s 2nd National Mediation Conference in Bhubaneswar underscores mediation’s growing role under the Mediation Act…
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on citizens to embrace Swadeshi and take a pledge to…
PM Modi hailed the RSS’s century-long journey, praising its patriotism, service, and ‘nation first’ principle.
Prime Minister Modi announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh for the families of Karur…