On June 12, a tragic plane crash occurred in Ahmedabad, claiming the lives of 297 people. The crash happened shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The plane, operated by Air India, lost communication with air traffic control just minutes into the flight. The last message sent by the pilot indicated a loss of thrust and power, hinting at the dire situation they faced.
In the aftermath of the disaster, officials launched a DNA matching process to identify the victims. As the bodies were severely burned, this method was crucial. As of now, 248 DNA samples have been cross-verified, leading to the identification of 16 victims. So far, 9 bodies have been handed over to their families.
The plane had 242 passengers onboard, and unfortunately, 241 lost their lives. Additionally, 56 others died in related incidents, bringing the total death toll to 297. The identification process is being expedited to provide families with closure.
To manage the situation, 170 coffins were ordered for the deceased. The Deputy Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, Rajneesh Patel, confirmed that DNA samples from 248 bodies have been matched against samples from relatives. As a result, the authorities are working to ensure that victims are respectfully returned to their families.
The gravity of the crash is evident, with many victims severely burned, complicating the identification process. Families have been called to Ahmedabad for DNA testing, and the identification of 16 victims has already been confirmed. Their bodies are now being returned to their loved ones.
In a moving moment, officials are ensuring that the handover of bodies is done with dignity. The government has arranged 192 ambulances and funeral vehicles to assist families during this difficult time. Each step is being taken to honour the deceased and support grieving families.
The investigation continues, with the black box from the flight recovered within 28 hours of the crash. This device will provide critical insights into the final moments of the flight. The findings from the black box will hopefully reveal the circumstances leading to this tragic event.
As the community mourns, the impact of this loss is felt deeply, not just in Ahmedabad but across India and beyond. The former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, was also among the victims. His family is currently undergoing the identification process, and arrangements are being made to return his body for burial in Rajkot. His untimely passing has cast a shadow of grief over the state.
With the ongoing investigation and identification process, the authorities are dedicated to ensuring that the victims are remembered and that their families receive the support they need. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community during times of loss.
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