Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site of the devastating Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad on Friday, a day after the tragic disaster claimed the lives of 265 people. The crash, one of the deadliest aviation accidents in India’s recent history, has left the nation in mourning.
The Air India flight AI-229, en route from Dubai to Ahmedabad, lost contact with air traffic control shortly before its scheduled landing on Thursday afternoon. The aircraft reportedly attempted an emergency landing in difficult weather conditions but crashed in a sparsely populated area on the city’s outskirts, bursting into flames upon impact.
Rescue operations continued through the night, with over 200 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local fire brigades, and emergency services combing through the wreckage. Authorities confirmed on Friday morning that 265 people, including passengers and crew, perished in the incident. A handful of survivors remain hospitalized with critical injuries.
Prime Minister Modi, who flew into Ahmedabad early Friday, was visibly moved as he walked through the crash site alongside Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and senior officials. Wearing a white kurta and a somber expression, he met with rescue workers, consoled grieving family members, and was briefed by investigators from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Speaking to the media after the site visit, PM Modi said, “This is a dark and painful moment for all of us. The loss of so many lives is heartbreaking. I have instructed authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to provide every possible assistance to the victims’ families. We stand with them in their grief.”
The Prime Minister announced an ex gratia payment of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹2 lakh for the injured, from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Additionally, he emphasized that aviation safety protocols would be reviewed in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Initial reports suggest a combination of engine failure and severe turbulence may have led to the crash, but officials cautioned that the black box — which has since been recovered — will offer clearer insights after analysis.
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President Droupadi Murmu, opposition leaders, and several global dignitaries have extended condolences to the victims’ families. Candlelight vigils and prayer meetings were held across the country Friday evening as India mourned the lives lost.
The tragedy has prompted renewed scrutiny of Air India’s fleet safety and emergency preparedness. Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that a high-level inquiry committee has already been constituted, and international experts will be consulted.
As the nation begins to grapple with the enormity of the loss, flags flew at half-mast in New Delhi, and a moment of silence was observed in Parliament.
The crash of AI-229 is a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the critical importance of aviation safety. For now, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved and uncovering the truth behind what caused this tragic fall from the skies.