Ahmedabad Plane Crash: How Many Victims Have Been Identified Through DNA Matching?
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Synopsis
The tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash has become a focal point of identification efforts. With 19 victims identified through DNA matching, community support and extensive forensic work are helping families seek closure while investigations continue.
Key Takeaways
- 19 victims identified through DNA matching.
- Extensive forensic efforts are underway.
- Over 260 lives lost in the crash.
- Community involvement is significant in relief efforts.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause.
Ahmedabad, June 15 (NationPress) The ongoing identification of victims from the devastating Air India Flight AI-171 crash is making headway. As of Saturday night, Gujarat's Minister of State for Home, Harsh Sanghavi, announced that 19 victims have been successfully identified using DNA matching methods.
Experts from the state Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) are diligently working to expedite the matching process, providing much-needed closure to the victims' families. The tragic incident unfolded on June 12, shortly after the London-bound Air India aircraft departed from Ahmedabad airport.
The aircraft crashed in a densely populated zone near Civil Hospital and B.J. Medical College, claiming the lives of over 260 individuals, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was a passenger on board the ill-fated Boeing Dreamliner 787-8. Remarkably, one passenger survived with minor injuries.
The crash caused extensive destruction in the vicinity, severely damaging medical hostels, which led to the evacuation of hundreds of postgraduate resident doctors and their families.
Due to the condition of many bodies, DNA testing has become the principal method for identification. Blood samples from over 248 relatives have been collected to aid in this endeavor. Officials state that forensic teams are tirelessly working around the clock to accelerate identifications and ensure that remains are returned to families with the utmost dignity.
Relief and recovery operations are being conducted on an unprecedented scale. A total of 164 teams, including medical professionals and assistants, are deployed across B.J. Medical College, the Trauma Centre, and the postmortem unit.
Furthermore, 192 ambulances and 591 personnel are managing the transportation of bodies, while 230 team members coordinate efforts across affected regions. Community involvement has been remarkable, with more than 100 Indian Medical Association (IMA) doctors and local residents actively engaged in relief initiatives.
A blood donation drive has gathered over 1,300 units thus far. As the victim identification process continues, investigations into the crash's cause are ongoing. Multiple agencies, such as the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), are exploring various possibilities, ranging from technical failures to fuel adulteration, but no official conclusions have been reached yet.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the tireless efforts of forensic teams and community members working towards identifying victims and providing support. As investigations unfold, we must remain vigilant and united in our pursuit of answers while honoring the memories of those lost. Our commitment to transparency and thoroughness in reporting is paramount during such challenging times.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many victims have been identified from the crash?
As of now, 19 victims have been identified through DNA matching.
What caused the Air India Flight AI-171 crash?
Investigations are ongoing, exploring possibilities like technical failure and fuel adulteration.
How many people were on the flight?
The crash resulted in over 260 fatalities, including both passengers and individuals on the ground.
What measures are being taken for recovery?
164 teams, including medical professionals, are deployed to aid in recovery efforts.
How is the community assisting?
Community support has been robust, with local doctors and residents actively participating in relief efforts.
