The aftermath of the Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad is proving to be a harrowing ordeal for the families of the victims, as the extreme heat and devastating impact are significantly hindering DNA identification efforts. The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 12, 2025, involved a London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner that crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The accident claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members, along with 38 fatalities on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India's history. One passenger miraculously survived the crash.
As families grapple with unimaginable grief, the slow and painstaking process of identifying the deceased adds another layer of agony. The severity of the crash has left many bodies disfigured and charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA profiling for identification. However, the intense heat from the post-crash fire has further complicated the process, degrading DNA samples and making it more challenging to obtain accurate matches.
Authorities from the State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) are working tirelessly around the clock to analyze DNA samples and match them with relatives. As of Sunday, June 15, 2025, 47 victims had been positively identified through DNA testing. While this marks progress, the process is slow, with only 25 bodies released to their families. Families have been camping at the Ahmedabad civil hospital for days, desperately awaiting news and providing DNA samples. The wait, compounded by the sweltering summer heat, is proving unbearable for many. The lack of regular communication and updates from officials has fueled frustration and anger among the grieving families. Some have voiced their concerns about the slow pace of identification and the need for more transparency.
The identification of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was among the passengers, is still pending, adding to the widespread anxiety. Once the DNA testing is complete, his body will be transported to Rajkot for his final rites, with a state mourning declared on June 16th.
Despite the challenges, authorities remain committed to identifying all the victims and providing closure to their families. The high-level panel formed to investigate the crash is expected to hold its first meeting soon. The committee, headed by the Union home secretary, is tasked with submitting a report within three months, detailing the causes of the accident. In the meantime, insurance companies have taken steps to ease claim processes, offering much-needed support to the affected families.
