Tragedy Strikes: Amit Shah Responds to Air India Flight AI171 Crash in Ahmedabad

Amit Shah's Response to the Air India Flight Tragedy

Ahmedabad: Union Home Minister Amit Shah referred to the Air India Flight AI171 crash as a 'national tragedy that has left the nation in mourning.' He expressed his sorrow over the significant loss of life and assured the families affected that the government would extend its full support during this difficult time.

Shah visited the Civil Hospital in Asarwa, Ahmedabad, where he met the sole survivor and the families of other victims, while also evaluating the medical response. He convened a high-level meeting with officials from the Civil Aviation Ministry, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Gujarat government to oversee rescue efforts and coordinate investigations.

At a press briefing, he stated, 'This devastating incident has shaken us all.' He added that the Prime Minister had reached out immediately, and all relevant government departments, along with the Gujarat Government, are collaborating on relief and rescue operations.

Regarding the casualties, he provided an update: 'The aircraft was carrying 230 individuals, including Indian nationals and foreign citizens, along with 12 crew members. Amidst this tragedy, I have received some hopeful news - one passenger has survived. I have personally met him.'

Earlier, in a post on social media platform X, Amit Shah conveyed his deep sorrow: 'Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces were swiftly mobilized. I have spoken with Gujarat CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, State Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and the Police Commissioner to assess the situation thoroughly.'

Shah underscored the magnitude of the disaster, revealing that DNA identification is currently in progress to formally confirm the identities of the deceased.

'Only after the DNA process is completed will we be able to release the names,' he stated.

The minister also pointed out the catastrophic nature of the incident, noting that the fire erupted with such ferocity after the plane crashed that 'there was no chance to save anything.'

The wreckage was quickly consumed by flames, complicating immediate rescue efforts.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, hitting a doctors’ hostel near a medical college.

The impact caused a massive explosion, leading to the deaths of over 200 individuals, including passengers, crew, and people on the ground. Recovery and identification operations are ongoing.