Ahmedabad witnessed a devastating aviation disaster today as Air India Flight AI171 crashed into the Meghaninagar area shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying approximately 242 passengers and crew members, went down only minutes after departure, leaving authorities scrambling for answers and emergency responders rushing to the scene.
On board the ill-fated flight were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian citizen.
Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is reported to have been on the flight.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu to assess the situation following the crash.
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Eyewitnesses reported thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky, causing widespread panic in nearby localities. Residents in areas such as Vastrapur said they could see flames and chaos unfold near the airport perimeter, fueling concerns about passenger survival and potential casualties.
ALSO READ: Air India Flight AI171 Crashes Near Ahmedabad, Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, were immediately dispatched. While rescue operations are ongoing, officials have yet to confirm the number of survivors or the cause of the crash.
Emergency Helpline Number For AI-171 Crash: 1800569144
Authorities are working closely with Air India to verify passenger identities and update families on their loved ones. A hotline has been set up for concerned relatives to receive real-time updates on those on board.
As investigations continue, officials urge the public to stay informed through official updates from Air India and aviation authorities.
