A devastating air disaster in India has claimed the lives of more than 240 people after an Air India flight bound for London crashed into a medical college facility in the city of Ahmedabad. The crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff on Thursday morning, is now being called one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in India in decades.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying over 240 people, including passengers from India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. Only one passenger survived: a man named Vishwashkumar Ramesh, who walked away from the wreckage with injuries but alive.
In a moment that defies explanation, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor, called his father just moments after the crash. According to his brother, who spoke to Sky News, “He video called my dad as he crashed and said ‘Oh the plane’s crashed. I don’t know where my brother is. I don’t see any other passengers. I don’t know how I’m alive, how I exited the plane.’”
Later, Ramesh described the scene to Hindustan Times, saying, “When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran.”
He was traveling with his brother, who did not survive.
Global Condolences and Investigations
The crash has sparked an international response. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a formal statement of sympathy: “He extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of India, as well as to all countries whose citizens were affected by this tragedy” [UN/AP].
In London, where the flight was headed, special prayers were held at temples across the city. At the Neasden Temple, one of the UK’s most prominent Hindu temples, community leader Yogvivekdas Swami said, “We will offer prayers for the unfortunate people who have passed away, the passengers, the crew, the pilots… also for all their family members that they may find strength and courage at this very difficult and challenging time.”
