Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday called the Air India Flight AI171 crash a “national tragedy.” He said the entire nation was mourning the massive loss of life. He assured families of the victims that the government would offer full support in this time of sorrow.
Shah visited the Civil Hospital in Asarwa, Ahmedabad. He met the only survivor, spoke with families of the deceased, and reviewed the medical response. Later, he chaired a high-level meeting with officials from the Civil Aviation Ministry, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Gujarat government. The team reviewed rescue efforts and coordinated the investigation.
Rescue Teams Mobilised Immediately
“This heartbreaking incident has shaken us all,” Shah said at a press briefing. “The Hon’ble Prime Minister responded immediately. All departments of the Government of India and the Gujarat Government are working together on relief and rescue.”
Shah shared details of the crash. “The aircraft carried 230 passengers, including Indian and foreign nationals, and 12 crew members. Amidst this tragedy, there is one hopeful sign—one passenger has survived. I have personally met him,” he said.
Earlier, Shah posted on the social media platform X: “Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces were swiftly mobilised. I spoke with Gujarat CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, State Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and the Police Commissioner to assess the situation.”
DNA Process Will Confirm Identities
He underlined the severity of the Air India crash. He said DNA testing is underway to identify the dead. “Only after the DNA process is completed will we release the names,” he stated.
Shah explained the intensity of the disaster. The fire after the crash was so severe that there was no chance to save anything. The wreckage was engulfed in flames, which made immediate rescue nearly impossible.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was flying to London Gatwick. It crashed minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft struck a doctors’ hostel near a medical college. The explosion that followed killed over 200 people, including passengers, crew, and civilians on the ground. Rescue teams are still carrying out recovery and identification efforts.
Also Read: Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Two Miraculously Survive As Rescue Efforts Continue
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