Breaking: Air India Plane Crash Leaves 271 Dead – DNA Tests Underway
The nation is in shock after the catastrophic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 271 lives, including passengers, crew, and victims on the ground. Authorities have confirmed that DNA tests have identified 11 victims, while the identification process continues for others.
What Happened? The Tragic Crash of AI171
On Thursday, Air India Flight AI171, en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft plummeted onto the campus of B.J. Medical College, erupting into flames.
- Total fatalities: 271 (242 passengers/crew + 29 on ground)
- Lone survivor: Vishwashkumar Ramesh (stable condition)
- Ground victims: Included five MBBS students
DNA Testing: The Only Hope for Identification
Due to the severely charred and disfigured remains, forensic teams are relying on DNA analysis to confirm identities.
Dr. Rajnish Patel, a senior government doctor, explained:
“The process is slow but crucial—DNA matching has legal and medical consequences. We must ensure 100% accuracy before handing over remains to families.”
Current Identification Status
✔ 8 victims identified visually (bodies released)
✔ 11 victims confirmed via DNA tests
❌ Remaining identifications pending
Government Response: Support for Grieving Families
Alok Pandey, Gujarat Revenue Secretary, revealed:
- Victims came from 18 Gujarat districts + other states & countries
- Families of 11 foreign nationals notified
- Grief counsellors deployed to help families cope
High-Level Probe: What Caused the Crash?
The Central Government has formed a special investigative panel, led by the Union Home Secretary, to determine:
🔍 Possible causes: Mechanical failure, pilot error, or external factors
🔍 Safety recommendations to prevent future tragedies
Aviation Safety Concerns: A Wake-Up Call?
This disaster has reignited debates on:
✅ Stricter aircraft maintenance checks
✅ Improved runway safety protocols
✅ Better emergency response systems
(For more on aviation safety standards, visit DGCA’s official guidelines).
How You Can Help
- Donate blood: Contact Red Cross India
- Support victim families: Verified relief funds listed on Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s website
Ahmedabad, June 14 (PTI) – In a tragic turn of events, the devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad has left the nation in mourning. Authorities have confirmed that the DNA of 11 victims has been successfully matched with their families, while the identification process for others remains ongoing due to severe damage to the bodies.
The Tragic Incident: A Recap
On Thursday, Air India Flight AI171, bound for London, crashed moments after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft plummeted onto the campus of B.J. Medical College in Meghaninagar, bursting into flames. The disaster claimed the lives of 242 passengers and crew, along with 29 individuals on the ground, including five MBBS students. The sole survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, remains in stable condition.
DNA Testing: A Crucial Step in Identification
With many bodies charred beyond recognition, forensic teams are relying on DNA testing to confirm identities. Dr. Rajnish Patel, a senior government doctor at B.J. Medical College, emphasized the meticulous nature of the process.
“DNA matching has legal and medical implications, so we cannot rush it. Every step must be precise to avoid errors,” he stated.
So far, eight victims have been identified visually, and their remains handed over to grieving relatives. The remaining identifications hinge on DNA analysis, which may take additional time.
Government Steps In: Support for Grieving Families
Alok Pandey, Gujarat Revenue Secretary, revealed that the victims hailed from 18 districts in Gujarat, along with other states and countries. Authorities have contacted families of 11 foreign nationals who perished in the crash.
To help families cope with unimaginable loss, the government is deploying grief counsellors. “The trauma is immense, and professional support is essential,” Pandey said.
National Investigation: High-Level Probe Initiated
The Central Government has formed a multi-disciplinary panel, led by the Union Home Secretary, to investigate the crash. The probe will examine technical failures, human error, and other potential causes behind one of India’s worst aviation disasters.
Moving Forward: A Nation in Mourning
As the recovery and identification process continues, the nation stands in solidarity with the victims’ families. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of aviation safety challenges, prompting calls for stricter regulations.
Stay tuned for further updates as investigations unfold.
Final Thoughts
As India mourns this unimaginable tragedy, the focus remains on identifying victims, supporting families, and preventing future disasters.
Stay updated with official reports from Ministry of Civil Aviation.