The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has described the crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad as a “tragic accident” and expressed deep sorrow for the families affected.
The London-bound flight, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed just minutes after it took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon.
“This is a very tragic accident. We extend our deepest condolences to people who have lost their loved ones,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a press briefing.
He added that the situation is still developing and more details will be shared by the responsible authorities soon.
According to Air India, the flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick had 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, and one Canadian on board.
Aviation Minister Visits Crash Site
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu reached the crash site to review the situation personally and coordinate with rescue teams.
Tata Trusts Expresses Grief
Chairman of Tata Trusts Noel Tata said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident involving Air India Flight 171. This heart-wrenching incident has brought immense grief to countless families. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and stand in solidarity with them during this unimaginable time.”
CRPF and NDRF Join Rescue Work
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has sent around 150 personnel to help in rescue and relief work. Troops from the 100 Battalion of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and CRPF’s Group Centre in Gandhinagar are involved.
The Gujarat government has also deployed three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, with 90 personnel joining the rescue operations.
Aircraft Crashed Into Doctor’s Hostel
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into a doctor’s hostel near the airport perimeter.
Ahmedabad Joint Commissioner of Police Jaipal Singh Rathore confirmed, “After takeoff, the plane crashed into a building, which is a doctors’ hostel. A preliminary enquiry has confirmed this.”
Railways and Police Also Step In
The Western Railway has sent its Disaster Management Team, medical teams and Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff to help with rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, the Ahmedabad City Police has shared an emergency helpline for public assistance related to the crash: 07925620359
DGCA Statement
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the crash happened in the MeghNagar area of Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff at 1:38 PM on Thursday. Enditem
Source: The Economic Times
Share Us
