Crash Details and Impact on BJ Medical College Hostel
The aircraft, which departed at 1:38 PM IST, issued a mayday call before losing contact with air traffic control at an altitude of 625 feet. The plane crashed into the Meghani Nagar area, striking the hostel mess of BJ Medical College, where medical students were having lunch. The impact caused significant structural damage, injuring and potentially killing students. Visuals from the scene show debris piercing the hostel’s dining hall and thick black smoke rising from the site.
Rescue Operations and Official Response
Emergency services, including fire brigades, ambulances, and six National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, were deployed immediately. Approximately 70–80% of the crash site has been cleared, with injured individuals rushed to nearby hospitals, including Asarwa Civil Hospital. A parent, Ramila, reported her son narrowly escaped by jumping from the second floor of the hostel, sustaining injuries but surviving. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow on X, stating, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu are heading to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue efforts. The UK government has offered consular support to British nationals affected.
Passenger Breakdown and Helplines
Air India confirmed the passenger nationalities: 169 Indians, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. The airline has set up a dedicated hotline (1800 5691 444) for families seeking updates. Ahmedabad City Police issued an emergency contact number: 079-25620359.
Emergency Helplines:
- Air India Passenger Hotline: 1800 5691 444 - Ahmedabad City Police: 079-25620359 - Ministry of Civil Aviation: 011-24610843, 9650391859
Investigation and Airport Status
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched investigations into the crash’s cause, with a technical team from Boeing assisting. Initial reports suggest stable weather conditions, ruling out weather-related causes. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has temporarily suspended all flight operations.
Global Condolences
World leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, have expressed condolences. The tragedy has drawn attention due to the reported presence of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani onboard, though his status remains unconfirmed. NRIGlobe News extends its deepest condolences to the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. Stay tuned for real-time updates as the situation develops
