Plane hits BJ Medical hostel, 265 lives lost
A catastrophic tragedy struck the city on Thursday afternoon when an Air India flight crashed directly into the hostel complex at BJ Medical College, turning the area into a scene of death, chaos, and destruction.
The Crash
The incident occurred at 1:39 pm local time, just minutes after Air India Flight AI171 a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner had taken off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport. Shortly after departure, the pilots issued a MAYDAY distress call due to a serious emergency. Communication was subsequently lost, and the aircraft fell directly into the Atulya hostel buildings Atulya 1, 2, 3, and 4 where many medical students and resident doctors were resting or having lunch.
Eyewitnesses said they heard a thunderous blast and saw thick smoke and flames as the aircraft struck the hostel complex.
Damage and Casualties
The impact resulted in the deaths of 241 people on board the flight, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, and many students and doctors in the hostel. So far, 265 bodies have been recovered by emergency teams, and at least 50 injured people have been rushed to the civil hospital for treatment.
The injured include several medical students, doctors, and hospital staff who were caught in the incident. Some remain missing under the debris, adding to the tragedy.
One Survivor Among Victims
In a ray of hope amid the chaos, Viswash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British citizen of Indian origin, was found alive and injured in the wreckage. He is currently receiving treatment at the civil hospital alongside other survivors.
Rapid Response and Support
Prime Minister Modi rushed to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue operations and meet the survivor. He described the incident as “heartbreaking” and assured full government support for the victims’ families. An inquiry into the cause of the tragedy is underway.
Conclusion
The Air India plane crash has left the country in shock and tragedy. The incident not only resulted in the immense loss of life but also disrupted a community of future doctors and healthcare workers. As rescue operations continue, the nation stands in solidarity with the victims’ families, honouring their memories and extending help to aid their recovery.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
