The Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, was a catastrophic event, claiming the lives of at least 279 people. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The crash not only killed almost everyone on board but also resulted in numerous fatalities on the ground, including medical students. However, amidst this tragedy, the immediate response of trainee doctors present at the scene shone as a beacon of hope, suggesting that the death toll could have been far higher without their swift intervention.
Eyewitness accounts detail a scene of utter chaos and devastation. Navin Chaudhary, a trainee doctor, recounted being startled by a deafening bang as fire engulfed the dining area where he and his colleagues were having lunch. Akshay Zala, another medical student, described the crash as feeling "like an earthquake." Despite the immediate danger, these doctors and other surviving students emerged from the wreckage and rushed to provide aid to their injured colleagues and others affected by the crash.
Reports indicate that many medical students were inside the hostel's dining area when the plane crashed into the building. According to a representative from the Junior Doctors' Medical Association, approximately 50 to 60 students were having lunch when the disaster struck. Tragically, several students lost their lives, including Dr. Rakesh Deora, Dr. Jayaprakash Chaudhary, Dr. Aryan Rajput, Dr. Manav Bhadu, and Dr. Bhavesh Seta.
The trainee doctors who survived immediately began treating the injured, utilizing their medical knowledge to provide essential first aid. They cleaned wounds, applied bandages, and stabilized patients before they could be moved to the medical college's trauma center. Their quick thinking and selfless actions in the face of immense adversity were crucial in saving lives in the critical moments following the crash.
The medical community in Gujarat displayed remarkable resilience and dedication in the aftermath of the crash. Forensic teams and trainee doctors from BJ Medical College worked tirelessly, conducting over 270 post-mortem examinations within just 13 hours. They also collected over 300 DNA samples to identify victims, many of whom were unrecognizable due to the severity of the impact and fire.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is currently investigating the causes of the crash, with the recovery of the flight's black box and cockpit voice recorder being crucial to the investigation. Initial reports suggest the pilot radioed in a 'Mayday' distress call shortly after takeoff, indicating that the aircraft was not gaining the required elevation. The last communication from the pilot mentioned "thirst not achieved falling," alluding to possible engine issues.
In the days following the crash, the focus has been on identifying the deceased and providing support to the bereaved families. DNA matching has been instrumental in identifying victims, with authorities working diligently to hand over the remains to their families for final rites.
The Ahmedabad plane crash is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of preparedness in the face of disasters. The courageous response of the trainee doctors in the immediate aftermath of the crash underscores the critical role that medical professionals play in saving lives during emergencies. Their selfless actions, combined with the tireless efforts of the forensic teams and other medical personnel, undoubtedly prevented an even greater loss of life.
