A devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, India, has left 241 people dead and only one survivor. The Air India flight, AI 171, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport in the state of Gujarat on June 12, 2023.
The sole survivor, a 40-year-old British man named Vishwach Kumar Ramesh, is being treated for injuries in a hospital. He reportedly showed his boarding pass to confirm his identity and seat number.
The plane crashed into a medical hostel, causing a massive fire that engulfed the building. At least 50 medical students were hospitalized, and four are still missing. It’s unclear if anyone on the ground was injured or killed in the disaster.
Indian authorities have completed their rescue operations at the crash site. The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced the end of the rescue efforts, while Home Minister Amit Shah said officials are verifying the DNA of the victims to confirm the death toll.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with officials working to determine the cause of the disaster. The BBC reported that the crash site has been secured, and forensic experts are collecting evidence to piece together what happened.
As the people of Ahmedabad mourn the loss of life, the international community is also coming to terms with the tragedy. The crash is a stark reminder of the risks and uncertainties of air travel, and it will likely have far-reaching implications for the aviation industry.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and the sole survivor, who is lucky to be alive. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of air safety and the need for continued vigilance in the skies.