One week has passed since the devastating tragedy in Ahmedabad, and although the immediate chaos has subsided, a heavy atmosphere of grief and uncertainty lingers. The city is grappling with the aftermath of the Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, 2025, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, in addition to at least 33 people on the ground. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, impacting a hostel complex of BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area.
The initial response to the crash was swift, with Ahmedabad Police establishing a "green corridor" to facilitate the movement of ambulances and emergency vehicles. Firefighters, NDRF teams, and other rescue personnel worked tirelessly to control the massive fire that erupted due to the aircraft's heavy fuel load and to recover victims from the wreckage. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) deployed machinery to clear debris, and hospitals were flooded with the injured and those seeking information about loved ones.
The process of identifying the deceased has been a painstaking and emotionally taxing one. Due to the severity of the fire, many bodies were charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA testing for identification. As of June 18, 2025, authorities had identified 190 victims through DNA matching and handed over the remains of 157 to their families. Forensic teams are working around the clock to expedite the process and provide closure to grieving relatives.
The crash investigation is underway, with a five-member committee formed immediately and a high-level committee, led by the Home Secretary, established to conduct a thorough probe. The aircraft's black box and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered, and investigators are analyzing the data to determine the cause of the crash. They are also gathering evidence from air traffic control, radar, CCTV footage, and eyewitness accounts. The lone survivor of the crash, Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, has been discharged from the hospital and is expected to provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the disaster.
The tragedy has raised questions about aviation safety and the maintenance of aircraft. The Civil Aviation Department has ordered frequent inspections of the Boeing 787 series in response to the crash. Investigators are also examining potential human factors, such as pilot fatigue or decision-making, as well as technical aspects, including the aircraft's flap settings and engine performance. A preliminary report on the crash is expected within three months.
In the wake of the disaster, the focus has also turned to the structural integrity of buildings in Ahmedabad. On June 17, 2025, a portion of a dilapidated three-story building collapsed in Shahibaug, prompting a rescue operation by the Fire and Emergency Services. While no casualties were reported in that incident, it highlighted the vulnerability of old and weak structures, especially with the approaching monsoon season. The AMC has been directed to conduct structural assessments of buildings across the city and initiate demolition if needed. The municipal body has also mandated structural stability certificates for buildings over 15 years old and urged residents to report signs of structural damage to their ward offices.
The city continues to mourn the lives lost in the Air India plane crash, and the investigation is ongoing. Amidst the grief and uncertainty, the community is coming together to support the affected families and work towards preventing similar tragedies in the future.
