June 12, 2025 | Ahmedabad The nation continues to reel from the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, with officials confirming that 26
June 12, 2025 | Ahmedabad The nation continues to reel from the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, with officials confirming that 265 bodies have been recovered so far. The devastating crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, is being called one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent decades.
As rescue teams continue their painstaking work through the wreckage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the crash site to assess the situation and meet with officials overseeing recovery efforts. The Prime Minister, who hails from Gujarat, is said to be personally monitoring developments.
A Day of Mourning and Heartbreak
The crash site near Bhaipura in Ahmedabad remains under strict security as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other emergency personnel carry out search and recovery operations. The terrain around the crash has made the task immensely challenging. Still, officials confirm that over 265 bodies have now been found and are being sent for DNA-based identification due to the severity of the impact.
According to local reports, many of the bodies are unidentifiable by visual means. Forensic teams are working around the clock to assist grieving families in locating their loved ones.
Eyewitness Horror: “We Heard a Thunderous Roar”
Several locals near the crash site recalled the horrifying moment when the aircraft plummeted into the outskirts of the city.
“There was a huge roar, and then we saw flames rise. People ran from their homes, not knowing what had happened,” said Ramesh Patel, a resident of the nearby colony. Many rushed to help before authorities cordoned off the area for emergency personnel.
Footage from the scene shows debris scattered across a wide area, with twisted metal and parts of the fuselage engulfed in smoke. Emergency responders arrived within minutes and began their rescue work under extremely difficult circumstances.
PM Modi Likely to Visit the Site
Sources in the Prime Minister’s Office have indicated that Narendra Modi is planning a visit to Ahmedabad in the next 24 hours. While there is no official confirmation yet, a high-security team is reportedly being deployed in advance of his visit.
This wouldn’t be the first time the Prime Minister has stepped in during a national tragedy. His expected visit would send a message of solidarity and support for the victims’ families, the people of Gujarat, and the nation at large.
Government sources also hinted that PM Modi may announce compensation packages and initiate a high-level review of aviation safety protocols.
Recovery Operations: A Grim Task
The Air India AI171 flight, a Boeing 777 en route to London via Mumbai, crashed just minutes after takeoff. With 301 passengers and crew members on board, hopes for survivors are grim. Officials had earlier retrieved the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which are now being analyzed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
An initial report suggests that the aircraft may have experienced a critical engine failure, but a full investigation is expected to take weeks or even months.
Meanwhile, over 1,200 personnel, including NDRF teams, fire services, medical staff, and police, continue to work round-the-clock in searing heat and emotional chaos.
DNA Identification Process Underway
With many victims beyond recognition, the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has set up a special DNA testing center to aid in identification. Families of the passengers are being called in to provide DNA samples. For many, the wait is unbearable.
A woman waiting outside the hospital broke down on camera, holding a photograph of her son who was on the flight.
“He was going to start his new job in London next week. I just want to know if he is… if he is one of them,” she wept.
The hospital has also deployed mental health professionals and grief counselors to help families navigate this tragedy.
Officials Appeal for Calm, Patience
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited the site earlier, said that the final death count can only be confirmed once DNA matching is completed.
“This is an unprecedented tragedy. The government is doing everything it can. We appeal to the people to remain calm and allow the rescue workers to do their jobs.”
Shah also announced that the families of each deceased individual would receive ₹1 crore in financial support from the Tata Group, which owns Air India. Additional relief is expected from both central and state governments.
Air India Responds
Air India issued a new statement expressing “profound sorrow” over the incident and said that a dedicated helpline and grievance cell had been set up for the families.
“We are devastated by this tragedy. Our entire team is mobilized to provide support to those affected. We are coordinating closely with government agencies for the recovery and investigation efforts,” the airline said.
Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also vowed to “leave no stone unturned” in finding out what caused the crash and ensuring such an incident never happens again.
A Nation Mourns
As India wakes to the second day of this national disaster, vigils have begun in various parts of the country. Candles have been lit outside Air India offices, and prayers held at temples, mosques, churches, and gurdwaras.
Social media is flooded with tribute posts, from celebrities and citizens alike. #AI171 and #AirIndiaTragedy have been trending across platforms.
Final Words
While the numbers are grim and the grief is raw, India has once again shown remarkable unity in the face of loss. From government officials to ordinary citizens, from rescue workers to grieving families, the response has been one of courage, compassion, and collective mourning.
As Prime Minister Modi prepares for a possible visit and the recovery continues, the country holds its breath — waiting for answers, grieving its dead, and hoping for strength in the days to come.
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