The aftermath of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad has been marked by increasing anguish and frustration as families of the victims urgently demand the return of their loved ones' bodies. The crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff on Thursday, has claimed the lives of at least 270 people, leaving families in deep mourning and desperate for closure.
Hundreds of family members have been gathering outside the B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, providing DNA samples to aid in the identification process. The magnitude of the disaster, coupled with the severe charring and mutilation of many bodies, has made visual identification impossible, necessitating DNA profiling and dental sample analysis. Authorities have stated that the DNA matching process typically takes up to 72 hours, but the agonizing wait has amplified the pain and frustration of the grieving families.
Several relatives have voiced their distress and impatience, pleading with authorities to expedite the process and provide regular updates. Rafiq Abdul Hafiz Memon, who lost four relatives in the crash, expressed his frustration with the lack of communication and answers from officials. Another individual, Rafiq Abdullah, whose nephew, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren were on the flight, desperately asked, "Where are my children? Did you recover them? The government is not answering these questions."
The slow pace of identification has been attributed to the meticulous nature of DNA matching, which requires careful attention to detail due to legal and medical implications. Dr. Rajnish Patel, a senior doctor at B.J. Medical College, noted that only a small number of victims have been identified through DNA matching thus far. However, families are yearning for more frequent communication and updates during this vulnerable time.
Adding to the families' distress is the perceived lack of support and information from relevant authorities. Some relatives have alleged that officials have barricaded themselves inside and are not providing adequate assistance or updates. Concerns have also been raised regarding the absence of representatives from the British High Commission, as many of the victims were British nationals.
The Air India crash has cast a shadow over the airline, which has been striving to rebuild its reputation since being taken over by the Tata Group in 2022. The government has initiated an urgent inspection of all Boeing 787s and formed a high-level committee to investigate the causes of the crash and formulate procedures to prevent future incidents. However, for the families of the victims, the priority remains the dignified return of their loved ones' remains so they can perform the last rites and find some solace amidst their grief.
