Why Are All Schools in Rajkot Closed Today?
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Synopsis
Rajkot schools are closed today in a heartfelt tribute to former CM Vijay Rupani, who tragically lost his life in an Air India plane crash. This move reflects the deep respect and mourning felt across the community. Join us as we explore the impact of this loss on Gujarat's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Rajkot schools closed in tribute to Vijay Rupani.
- Vijay Rupani died in an Air India crash.
- Tributes from political leaders and citizens.
- Emergency response teams mobilized swiftly.
- Gujarat's political landscape feels the loss.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) In a profound expression of respect and mourning, all government and private schools in the Rajkot district will remain shuttered on Saturday, due to the heartbreaking loss of former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, who tragically perished in an Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
The decision was announced late Friday evening by the Rajkot district administration, which also called on educational institutions to hold a two-minute silence in honor of the late leader.
Vijay Rupani, aged 68, lost his life in Thursday’s catastrophic Air India plane crash close to Ahmedabad. He was among the 241 passengers on board Air India Flight AI-171, which was headed from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick Airport.
The plane went down shortly after take-off in the Meghani Nagar region, leading to numerous casualties and injuries.
The sudden passing of the senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) figure has sent shockwaves through the political and social fabric of Gujarat. A seasoned politician, Rupani began his career in Rajkot and served multiple terms as an MLA from the area. He held the position of Chief Minister from 2016 to 2021, a time characterized by significant development initiatives and administrative improvements.
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site and subsequently met with injured survivors receiving treatment at Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital.
In a touching gesture, the Prime Minister also offered his condolences to Rupani’s grieving family at the GujSail building near the airport.
“It is inconceivable that Vijaybhai is no longer with us. I have known him for decades. We collaborated closely, even during some of the most difficult times,” the Prime Minister conveyed on social media platform X.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel described the Ahmedabad plane crash as a “tragedy beyond words” while praising the swift and compassionate response from the state under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Earlier, in a post on X, CM Patel expressed that Gujarat stood “with courage and empathy” alongside the affected families during their darkest moments.
Just minutes following the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI-171 on June 12, response teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, RAF, Police, and Fire Services were promptly deployed. Over 600 fire personnel and more than 100 ambulances were mobilized for immediate medical evacuation.
The CM noted that a special green corridor facilitated the prompt transport of injured passengers to hospitals. Specialized medical teams, DNA experts, senior IAS officers, counselors, and SEOC units were dispatched to aid in rescue, identification, and emotional care operations.
Civil Hospital and SEOC control rooms are operating 24/7, coordinating support and communication with the victims’ families.
This tragic incident has triggered a nationwide wave of sorrow, with tributes pouring in from diverse political backgrounds and the public.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the profound impact of Vijay Rupani's passing on Gujarat's political and social landscape. His contributions as a leader and his dedication to public service will not be forgotten. The closure of schools in Rajkot symbolizes the collective grief felt by many, reinforcing the importance of unity in difficult times.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are schools in Rajkot closed today?
All schools in Rajkot are closed today in mourning for former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who tragically died in an Air India plane crash.
What happened to Vijay Rupani?
Vijay Rupani lost his life in an Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad while traveling from Ahmedabad to London.
What actions are being taken in response to the crash?
Response teams were mobilized immediately, and a special green corridor was established for transporting injured passengers to hospitals.
How is the community responding to Rupani's death?
The community is in mourning, with tributes pouring in from political leaders and citizens alike, reflecting the deep respect held for Rupani.
What was Vijay Rupani's role in Gujarat?
Vijay Rupani served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2016 to 2021 and was a key figure in the state's political landscape.
