Ahmedabad Plane Crash: 241 Dead Including Vijay Rupani | Survivor Ramesh Vishwas Shares Horror
Ahmedabad plane crash: In a heart-wrenching tragedy on Thursday, an Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 241 people. Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Miraculously, one passenger, Ramesh Vishwas, survived the crash and his account of the incident has shocked the entire nation.
What Happened in the Ahmedabad Plane Crash?
On 12 June 2025, at around 11:45 AM, Air India’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, flight AI171, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad en route to London. Onboard were 238 passengers and 5 crew members, totalling 243 people. Just 30 seconds after take-off, the aircraft reported a technical failure and crashed near the Meghani Nagar area, adjacent to the runway.
Eyewitnesses described seeing thick smoke and flames rising from the wreckage. According to locals, the aircraft wobbled mid-air before crashing with a deafening explosion, causing widespread panic and damage in the surrounding area.
The Miraculous Story of Ramesh Vishwas
The sole survivor, Ramesh Vishwas, who was seated at 11A, shared his harrowing experience after receiving primary treatment at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. He told reporters:
“There was a loud explosion after take-off and everything started shaking. I don’t remember much after that. When I regained consciousness, there were dead bodies and debris all around. It’s nothing short of a miracle that I survived.”
Ramesh, visibly emotional, revealed that his brother was also on the flight and is currently unaccounted for. He has appealed to authorities to help locate his brother. A video showing Ramesh limping towards an ambulance has gone viral on social media, stirring nationwide sympathy.
Gujarat Mourns the Loss
The death of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (68) has plunged the state into mourning. Rupani, who served as CM from 2016 to 2021, was travelling in business class to meet his family in London via Delhi. His sudden demise has sent waves of grief across the political and social landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences in a tweet:
“The Ahmedabad plane crash is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May God give them the strength to endure this loss.”
Families Struggle to Identify Loved Ones
The bodies of the victims have been taken to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and various private hospitals. Due to severe burns, identification of many remains has become a major challenge. Tanveer Malik, a resident of Vadodara, said:
“My in-laws were on the flight, travelling to London to visit their daughter. The condition of the bodies makes identification nearly impossible. This pain is unbearable.”
Authorities have initiated DNA testing and other scientific methods for identification. The process is expected to take time, further deepening the agony for families waiting for closure.
Rescue and Relief Operations
Following the crash, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire services, local police, and the Indian Army rushed to the site for rescue operations. The aircraft’s black box has been recovered, which will be crucial in determining the cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered a high-level investigation.
The Gujarat government has announced ₹10 lakh as financial assistance for the families of the deceased and free treatment for the injured. Air India, under the Tata Group, has pledged ₹1 crore compensation for each bereaved family.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents who witnessed the crash described the horror. Amrit Lal (34), a resident of Meghani Nagar, recounted:
“We saw the aircraft wobbling in the sky. Within seconds, there was a massive explosion and flames shot up 20–25 feet. We tried to save some passengers, but most were trapped under the debris.”
According to FlightRadar24 data, the aircraft climbed to a maximum altitude of 625 feet before rapidly descending, indicating a serious technical malfunction.
Preliminary Cause of the Crash
Initial investigations suggest a technical failure as the likely cause. Experts believe the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner encountered a critical issue during take-off. Detailed analysis of the black box and pilot-control room communications is underway to determine the exact reason.
Official Appeal for Calm and Accurate Information
The Gujarat government has urged citizens to avoid spreading rumours and to rely only on official updates. For assistance and information, the following helpline numbers and email have been released:
- Helpline Numbers: 1800-233-5500, 07922869211, 011-69329333
- Email: reliefcell@gujarat.gov.in
Condolences from Across the Country
President Droupadi Murmu, Home Minister Amit Shah, and several other leaders have expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar also posted:
“Shocked by the news of the Ahmedabad plane crash. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”
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