On June 12, 2025, tragedy struck when Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at around 1:45 PM IST
Among the 242 passengers and crew onboard, reports indicate that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was traveling to London Gatwick Airport.
The aircraft went down in the Meghani Nagar area, a densely populated locality near the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses described a terrifying explosion, followed by thick black smoke and burning debris scattered across rooftops and streets.
Rescue Efforts Intensify as Authorities Assess Casualties
Emergency response teams, including fire brigades, police units, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been deployed to the crash site. Officials have yet to confirm the number of casualties, but at least 25 severely injured individuals have been rushed to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, assuring full support from the central government in handling rescue and relief operations.
Investigation Underway as Nation Awaits Updates on Vijay Rupani’s Status
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched an inquiry into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft issued a MAYDAY distress call moments before losing contact with air traffic control.
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