Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Said to be Among Those On Board
Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
A major aviation tragedy struck Gujarat on Thursday as an Air India Dreamliner aircraft, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed just minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad Airport, triggering a full-scale emergency response.
The flight, which reportedly took off at 1:17 PM, was carrying over 240 passengers and crew members, according to preliminary statements from airline officials and media reports. Though initial figures mentioned 232 onboard, updated reports suggest 242 individuals were on the flight at the time of the incident.
Crash Site and Immediate Aftermath
The aircraft came down near the Meghaninagar area, with thick plumes of smoke rising visibly from the wreckage. Nearby areas like Dharpur and Vastrapur were reportedly enveloped in haze as the fire resulting from the crash spread rapidly.
Shocking visuals captured by local residents and shared across social media platforms showed the moment dark smoke billowed skyward. Eyewitnesses reported the crash was heard distinctly, followed by chaos as emergency sirens wailed across the vicinity.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Fire brigade units and emergency rescue teams were rushed to the site immediately. Rescue operations are underway with first responders working to douse the flames and search for survivors amidst the wreckage.
The Ahmedabad Airport has since been shut down, and all flights have either been delayed or diverted until further notice. Authorities have cordoned off the crash zone and have urged civilians to stay away from the area to allow unobstructed emergency operations.
Conflicting Passenger Data and Official Statements Awaited
While early reports pegged the number of passengers at around 130, official sources later confirmed that over 240 people, including crew, were onboard. Air India has yet to release a full statement confirming the extent of casualties or the technical reason behind the crash.
The flight was scheduled to reach Gatwick Airport, London, and had cleared initial air traffic control procedures before losing altitude sharply within five minutes of takeoff.
High-Level Political Attention
The crash drew immediate attention from top political leaders. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner to review the situation.
In another critical update, it was reported that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers onboard. His status remains unconfirmed at this time.
Meanwhile, Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu is en route to Ahmedabad from Vijayawada to personally oversee the investigation and emergency handling.
Eyewitness Accounts
Several locals living near the airport recounted the harrowing experience:
“We heard a loud explosion and rushed outside. We saw black smoke and then several emergency vehicles speeding past. It was terrifying,” said a resident from Meghaninagar.
Another witness from Vastrapur, several kilometers away, said:
“The smoke was visible even from here. Everyone stopped in their tracks and started filming. We had no idea a plane had crashed at first.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities are expected to begin a full aviation accident investigation led by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, possibilities such as engine failure, bird strike, or mechanical error are being examined.
The black box recorder is crucial to uncovering what happened during those critical moments after takeoff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where did the Air India flight crash?
The flight crashed near Meghaninagar area in Ahmedabad, shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad Airport.
2. How many people were on board the crashed Air India flight?
Initial reports vary, but the flight was carrying between 232 and 242 passengers, including crew members.
3. What was the destination of the crashed flight?
The flight was en route to Gatwick Airport in London.
4. What time did the plane take off and crash?
It took off at around 1:17 PM and crashed within five minutes after takeoff.
5. Has the cause of the crash been identified?
The cause is still under investigation, with experts looking into various technical and mechanical aspects.
6. Are there any confirmed casualties?
As of now, there are no official confirmations regarding fatalities or survivors. Emergency services are still on the ground conducting rescue operations.
This tragic incident has cast a dark shadow over Indian aviation. As rescue and relief work continues, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for survivors and answers. Our thoughts are with the families of those onboard and the brave first responders risking their lives.
Stay tuned for verified updates as more information becomes available.
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