Tragic Aftermath of Air India Flight 171 Crash
The devastating crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on June 12 has left families in profound grief as they await news of their loved ones. The aircraft, carrying 242 passengers and crew, struck a medical college hostel in a residential area, resulting in the tragic loss of 241 lives. As reported by officials, the intense heat from the crash has made identification of remains extremely challenging, with only 35 bodies handed over to relatives so far out of an official death toll of 270, which includes individuals on the ground.
Doctors are relying on DNA samples from relatives to identify victims, a process that is painstakingly slow. According to authorities, only 11 victims had been identified by DNA as of June 15. The anguish is palpable among families who cling to hope, with some still unable to confirm the fate of their loved ones amidst the chaos and destruction at the crash site.
Heartbreak and Desperation Among Families
Families gathered near the site express a profound sense of abandonment and frustration. One family member from Patan district shared their sorrow, stating, 'We have come here from Patan district. My sister-in-law died in the plane crash that occurred yesterday...DNA test was done yesterday, her brother gave his samples. They have asked for 72 hours, following which they would provide more information.' This reflects the agonizing wait many endure as they seek closure.
Another heart-wrenching story involves Pyal, who is searching for her mother and niece, both missing since the crash. She lamented, 'We have no money, we have no influence. Nobody is helping us.' Her mother was preparing meals for medical students at the hostel when the tragedy struck. Additionally, Sarlaben Thakur, a 52-year-old cook at the BJ College hostel mess, and her 2-year-old granddaughter remain unaccounted for, with neither their bodies found nor their names appearing on official lists.
The emotional toll is evident across social media platforms like X, where posts reveal the raw pain of those affected. Many describe the insensitivity faced while waiting outside for news, with families breaking down as they are pressed for details about their loved ones. The collective sentiment underscores a desperate need for support and answers during this harrowing time.
Ongoing Investigations and Search for Answers
As families grapple with loss, investigators are working tirelessly to uncover the cause of the crash. The black box has been recovered from the site, offering hope that critical data will shed light on the events leading up to the disaster. Authorities continue to urge relatives to provide DNA samples to aid in the identification process, a necessary but grueling step given the condition of many remains.
The scale of the tragedy extends beyond the passengers, impacting ground victims like hostel workers and residents. Stories of individuals like Imtiaz Ali Syed, who struggles to inform his mother of his brother's likely death on the flight, highlight the personal devastation felt by so many. As the wait for bodies and answers continues, the community remains united in grief, seeking solace amid an unimaginable loss.