Tragic Ahmedabad Plane Crash: 247 Victims Identified, Families Begin to Find Closure

The recent plane crash in Ahmedabad has resulted in the identification of 247 victims through DNA testing, with 232 bodies returned to grieving families. The tragedy, which claimed 270 lives, has left many families in mourning as they navigate the painful process of loss. Authorities continue to work diligently to identify the remaining victims, ensuring that families receive closure. This article delves into the ongoing identification efforts and the emotional farewells held for the victims, highlighting the impact of this devastating event on the community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2025, 21:37 IST

Identification of Victims Continues

In a heartbreaking update from Ahmedabad, officials confirmed that 247 victims of the devastating plane crash on June 12 have been identified through DNA analysis, with 232 bodies returned to their grieving families as of Saturday.

Authorities have requested DNA samples from relatives of eight victims due to initial samples not matching, indicating the ongoing challenges in the identification process.

Among the confirmed victims is Mahesh Jirawala, a filmmaker from Ahmedabad, whose remains were identified and returned to his family.

In Maharashtra, emotional farewells were held for crew members Deepak Pathak and Irfan Shaikh, with ceremonies attended by numerous mourners in their respective hometowns.

The tragic incident occurred shortly after the aircraft took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, crashing into a hostel complex in Meghaninagar and resulting in the loss of 270 lives, including 241 individuals on board. Remarkably, one passenger survived.

Due to the severity of the crash, many bodies were charred beyond recognition, necessitating extensive DNA testing to confirm identities.

Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, stated that as of Saturday evening, 247 DNA matches had been confirmed, and the process of returning remains to families is ongoing.

The identified victims include 187 Indians, 52 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. Of the Indian victims, 175 were passengers on the flight, hailing from various regions including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Diu, and Nagaland.

The state government had previously collected samples from 250 individuals, including those on the flight and victims on the ground.

For the eight families needing further DNA testing, officials explained that if initial samples do not match, they may request samples from other relatives, typically preferring those closely related, such as parents or siblings.

Dr. Joshi emphasized the sensitivity and legal protocols involved in the DNA matching process, which is being conducted with urgency and care.

To expedite the identification and return of bodies, a collaborative effort is underway involving Forensic Science University, local authorities, and various health departments.

The confirmation of Jirawala's death was made through DNA testing, with police providing additional evidence, including CCTV footage and the recovery of his burnt scooter, to reassure his family.

Jirawala, 34, was reportedly passing through the area on his scooter when the plane crashed, and his family had been in disbelief until the evidence was presented.

His wife, Hetal, shared that he was a filmmaker known for directing music albums.

In Badlapur, Pathak's remains were cremated in a ceremony attended by thousands, while Shaikh's family held his last rites in Pune, surrounded by loved ones and community members.

Irfan's mother remains in shock, struggling to cope with the loss of her son.