What Are the Reactions to the Air India Plane Crash?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Immediate rescue operations initiated.
- Hospitals on high alert for injured passengers.
- NDRF teams deployed to assist in rescue efforts.
- Political leaders express condolences and support.
- Authorities urge the public to maintain distance from the crash site.
New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) An Air India flight heading to London, with over 240 passengers onboard, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, triggering a significant emergency response and eliciting heartfelt condolences from political leaders nationwide.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed profound sadness on his social media platform 'X', confirming that emergency protocols were swiftly initiated.
“I am deeply saddened by the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. I have directed officials to commence immediate rescue and relief operations and ensure that the injured passengers receive treatment without delay. A green corridor has been established to expedite the transport of the injured to hospitals, prioritizing all necessary medical arrangements,” he stated.
He also mentioned that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had communicated with him, assuring comprehensive support from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Central Government for ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi also posted on X, stating, “In light of this unfortunate event, the Hon’ble Chief Minister has acted promptly. Hospitals are on high alert, and all ambulances, including the 108 services, are fully prepared. Senior officials have been dispatched to both hospitals and the airport to guarantee a rapid response. NDRF and SDRF teams have arrived at the crash site. The Prime Minister’s Office is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates and guidance. Hon’ble Home Minister Amit Shah ji is in constant touch, actively overseeing rescue efforts.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also shared his concerns.
“I am pained and shocked to learn of the Air India passenger flight incident in Ahmedabad. I pray for everyone's safety,” he remarked in a post on X.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed, “I am stunned and profoundly shocked by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad today. This heartbreaking news affects us all. I extend my condolences to the victims' families. While we await information on survivors, I am praying for everyone’s safety. The crash, which took place during takeoff, has deeply unsettled me. Reports indicate that 242 passengers were onboard. I pray for them all.”
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also shared a heartfelt message, “God bless everyone.”
AAP leader Manish Sisodia added, “This news from Ahmedabad is heartbreaking. A passenger aircraft has crashed near a residential area during takeoff. The images of smoke and devastation are distressing. My thoughts are with the safety of all passengers. May God provide strength to the affected families.”
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for transparency in the investigation. “Immediate clarification on the Ahmedabad plane crash is necessary to address all concerns. My prayers are with all passengers and crew members. The highest level of rescue, relief, and medical assistance must be guaranteed.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) Aaditya Thackeray also reacted on X: “I am shocked and saddened to hear about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. We are praying for the safety of survivors and extend our sympathies to the families of those affected. Let us hope for the best.”
Meanwhile, rescue and medical teams are actively on site, prioritizing passenger safety and emergency response.
Dramatic scenes from the crash site showed thick grey smoke spiraling into the sky, visible from several kilometers away, including areas of Vastrapur. Eyewitnesses recounted moments of panic and confusion as emergency sirens blared and local residents gathered nearby.
Firefighters, local police, and emergency medical services were among the first responders at the scene. NDRF teams have also been deployed to assist in ongoing rescue operations.
Currently, officials have not disclosed specific details regarding casualties or the cause of the crash. Authorities have urged the public to maintain distance from the crash site to facilitate unobstructed operations by emergency crews.