On June 12, a tragic plane crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The Air India flight AI-171 was headed to London when it crashed, resulting in the loss of 241 lives. In the aftermath of the disaster, the immediate need for rescue was paramount. Within just three minutes, the emergency response team, known as 108, arrived at the scene and began their life-saving work. This article highlights the experiences and emotions of those who were first on the scene.
Satindar Singh Sandhu, a supervisor with the 108 team, was one of the first responders. He recalled, “I had just started my meal when I heard a loud explosion. I rushed outside and saw smoke rising from the direction of the hospital mess.” Understanding the gravity of the situation, he quickly alerted the control room to send additional ambulances.
One of Sandhu’s colleagues, Jitendra Shah, the program manager, acted swiftly. He received a call from Sandhu around 1:40 PM, alerting him about the disaster. Shah immediately dispatched nearly 25 ambulances to the crash site, ensuring that help was on the way before many even knew the extent of the tragedy.
Chirag Santoki, an emergency medical technician (EMT), was also among the first responders. He described how he helped rescue a man who was in shock, repeatedly saying that he was not alone. This man turned out to be the sole survivor of the crash, named Vishwas Kumar. Santoki provided comfort and reassurance as they rushed him to the hospital.
The training given to the 108 teams was crucial during this crisis. EMT Chintan Vankar mentioned, “We undergo counseling training to calm patients in distress. This training was vital in handling such a traumatic situation.” Despite feeling overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster, he managed to keep his composure and aid those in need.
The response from the 108 emergency services was commendable. Within minutes, they had multiple ambulances on-site, transporting the injured to hospitals. The team worked tirelessly, showing great dedication and professionalism. Their efforts were essential in providing immediate medical attention to the victims.
The incident has left a deep impact on the community and beyond. Many people expressed their condolences for the victims’ families, and there was a sense of national mourning. Even global leaders, including the US President, sent messages of sympathy.
In the wake of this tragedy, several organisations, including Tata, announced financial aid for the families affected. They pledged to provide 10 million INR to each family who lost a loved one in the crash. This gesture is a step towards supporting those who are grieving.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the heroism of the first responders should not be overlooked. They faced a chaotic and traumatic situation with bravery and professionalism. Their quick actions saved lives and demonstrated the importance of preparedness and teamwork in emergencies.
The Ahmedabad plane crash is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of emergency services. The stories of the heroes who rushed to help will be remembered as an inspiring example of courage in the face of disaster.
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