Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the Air India plane crash, calling the incident “heartbreaking beyond words.”
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has left us shocked and saddened. It is truly beyond words. My thoughts are with all those affected during this difficult time. I am in constant contact with ministers and officials working on relief efforts,” he wrote on X.
What We Know So Far About the Air India Crash
A London-bound Air India flight carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew, crashed into a residential area in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon. The incident has left many feared dead.
Dramatic visuals showed the Boeing 787 Dreamliner (flight AI171) plummeting rapidly and crashing into flames, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
The crash occurred in the Meghaninagar area around 2 pm, leading to a temporary suspension of airport operations in the city.
Onboard the aircraft were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, and one Canadian.
Several injured individuals have been admitted to the nearby civil hospital in Ahmedabad for treatment.
Prime Minister Modi has spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu regarding the unfolding situation.
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran issued a statement confirming the activation of an emergency response center and the deployment of support teams to assist affected families.
“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones impacted by this tragic event. Right now, our top priority is to support the victims and their families. We are coordinating with emergency teams at the site and providing every possible form of assistance,” he shared on X.
Civil Aviation Minister Naidu also expressed grief, stating that all relevant agencies are operating at the “highest alert.”
“Shocked and deeply saddened by the crash in Ahmedabad. I am closely monitoring the situation and have instructed all aviation and emergency response teams to act swiftly and in coordination. Rescue efforts are underway, and urgent medical aid is being rushed to the scene. My prayers are with everyone affected,” he posted on X.
