Tragic Air India Crash: 270 Lives Lost, Identification Process Underway

Identification Efforts Following the Air India Tragedy

Ahmedabad: In the aftermath of the devastating Air India plane crash that resulted in 270 fatalities, authorities have successfully identified 99 victims through DNA analysis. So far, 64 bodies, including that of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, have been returned to their families, as reported on Monday.

Rupani was among the 242 individuals aboard the ill-fated Air India flight AI-171, which was en route to London and tragically crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12. His remains were handed over to his wife, Anjali Rupani, and other relatives at the city civil hospital.

Due to the severe condition of many bodies, which were either charred or otherwise damaged, officials are conducting DNA tests to confirm identities.

Civil superintendent Dr. Rakesh Joshi informed the media, "As of now, we have matched 99 DNA samples, and 64 bodies have been returned to their respective families. The deceased hailed from various regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan."

In light of the distress experienced by the families, he urged them to remain calm regarding the lengthy DNA matching process.

"We are making every effort to expedite this process. Some families have expressed concern over the delay in results, but it is crucial for legal reasons. We will notify them as soon as the results are available," Dr. Joshi added.

On Sunday, authorities at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital announced that samples from 250 victims, including those on the flight and individuals who perished on the ground, had been collected for identification.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people, crashed into a medical college complex shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM on June 12.

While 241 individuals on the flight lost their lives, one passenger survived the incident.

Additionally, 29 fatalities have been reported on the ground, including five MBBS students.