National: A devastating plane crash occurred near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, involving an Air India flight bound for London. The aircraft, carrying 242 passengers and crew members, went down in the Meghani area shortly after takeoff, triggering widespread panic and a massive emergency response.
Local residents were quick to respond, rushing to the site to assist with rescue operations before official teams arrived. Firefighters, NDRF personnel, and local police are currently engaged in rescue and recovery operations, with the area remaining under emergency alert. The Gujarat government has deployed disaster response forces to the crash site, and authorities are working to determine the cause of the tragic incident.
Reports indicate that at least 133 people have lost their lives in the crash, with many others injured. The injured are being taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Unfortunately, chances of any survivors are slim, according to sources.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken stock of the situation, speaking to Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu. Shah has held a detailed discussion with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel regarding the unfolding crisis. The central government has assured full support and all necessary assistance in managing the aftermath of the crash.
The international community has expressed sympathy and solidarity with India following the tragic crash. World leaders, including Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov and French envoy Thierry Mathou, have extended condolences to the families of the victims. The British government has issued a travel advisory, working with local authorities to provide support to those involved.