Following the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, the Tata Group has announced a significant relief measure for the families of the victims. The group will provide Rs 1 crore in compensation to the family of each person who lost their lives in the disaster.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members when the incident occurred. Preliminary reports indicate that the pilot issued a mayday call before communication was lost with air traffic control. The crash site, near a medical college hostel, prompted a swift response from emergency services, with numerous ambulances deployed to transport the injured to nearby hospitals.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, expressed his condolences in a statement, saying, "No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment." In addition to the Rs 1 crore compensation, the Tata Group has pledged to cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure they receive the necessary care and support. The group will also provide support in rebuilding the B J Medical College hostel, which was impacted by the crash. "We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time," Chandrasekaran affirmed.

The Tata Group's prompt response aims to provide immediate financial relief to the grieving families as they navigate this difficult period. The gesture reflects the group's commitment to supporting the communities affected by the tragedy and underscores its responsibility as the owner of Air India.

In addition to the Tata Group's compensation, families of the deceased may be eligible for further compensation under the Montreal Convention, an international treaty that governs airline liability in cases of death or injury on international flights. Under this convention, airlines operating in India are liable to pay up to approximately Rs 1.4 crore per passenger, regardless of fault. Higher payouts may be awarded if the airline is proven to have been negligent.

Air India has established a dedicated hotline, 1800 5691 444, to provide information and assistance to those affected by the crash. A special team of caregivers from Air India is en route to Ahmedabad to offer additional support to passengers, crew members, and their families.

The Ahmedabad airport briefly suspended operations following the crash but has since resumed with limited flights. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before heading to the airport.

The Indian Army has also joined the relief efforts, deploying approximately 130 personnel to assist civil administration with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The army's contributions include engineering teams with heavy equipment for debris clearance, medical teams, quick action teams, fire-fighting assets, and provost staff for site management.

As investigations into the cause of the crash commence, the aviation community and the nation mourn the lives lost in this devastating event.