How Did a Family from Nadiad End Up Devastated in the Air India Plane Crash?
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Synopsis
The crash of Air India Flight AI-171 has tragically affected 17 families in Gujarat's Kheda district. Among the victims, Mahadevbhai and Ashaben Pawar were on their first international trip, highlighting the emotional turmoil and urgent appeals for dignified handling of remains amidst national grief.
Key Takeaways
- Air India Flight AI-171 tragically crashed shortly after takeoff.
- 17 families from Kheda district lost their loved ones.
- Mahadevbhai and Ashaben Pawar were on their first international trip.
- Families are calling for respectful handling of remains.
- The investigation is ongoing, with the black box recovered.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) The devastating incident involving Air India Flight AI-171 has left a profound impact on the Kheda district of Gujarat, resulting in the loss of lives of 17 families from the area.
Among the deceased are Mahadevbhai Tukaram Pawar and his wife Ashaben Pawar, who lived in Saraswati Nagar near New Shorak Ground in Nadiad. They were on their inaugural international trip to reunite with their son in the United Kingdom.
What was expected to be a joyful meeting turned into their last journey.
As per family reports, the elderly couple, who had never experienced air travel before, were thrilled about the opportunity. “They made a final video call to their son from the airport, beaming with excitement,” shared a family member.
The couple’s son had been residing in the UK, and this visit was a long-awaited event. Mahadevbhai’s younger son, Rameshbhai, along with other relatives, accompanied them to Ahmedabad Airport to bid farewell.
However, only hours later, their lives were shattered.
“We returned from the hospital in the morning, and in the afternoon, we received the heartbreaking news of the crash,” expressed Maheshbhai, the nephew of the deceased couple, with tears streaming down his face. “We frantically tried calling their phone. It rang… but there was no answer. Fear engulfed us.”
The family rushed to Ahmedabad, first heading to the airport and then to Asarwa Civil Hospital, where the victims were being brought. “The atmosphere at the hospital was chaotic, crowded, and emotionally taxing. Amidst the turmoil, DNA samples were collected late into the night,” he recounted.
With a heavy heart, Maheshbhai urged the authorities for dignity and transparency in the identification process of the remains. “Take more than 72 hours if necessary, take an extra day, but please return our loved ones' remains to us in an orderly and respectful manner,” he implored.
“This isn’t solely about my uncle and aunt. This pertains to all families in mourning. Our emotions are deeply intertwined with our loved ones, and we urge the government to recognize this as a collective national sorrow.”
He also mentioned that Mahadevbhai’s mobile phone continues to ring, a painful reminder of their loss. “The last photograph taken at the airport has now transformed into their final memory. It haunts us,” said his son, grappling with the tragedy.
The Air India flight, which was destined for London’s Gatwick Airport, tragically crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of 241 passengers, including many from Gujarat. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with the black box already retrieved.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with sensitivity and understanding. The emotional toll on the affected families is profound, and their calls for respectful treatment of their loved ones' remains must be addressed. As a nation, we share in their sorrow and must ensure that the investigation into this incident is thorough and transparent, providing clarity and closure to all those impacted.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the cause of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash?
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and the black box has been recovered for analysis.
How many families were affected by the crash?
The crash tragically impacted 17 families from the Kheda district in Gujarat.
Where did the flight crash?
The flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
What are the relatives requesting from the authorities?
Relatives are appealing for dignity and clarity in the process of identifying and returning the remains of their loved ones.
What was the destination of Air India Flight AI-171?
The flight was bound for London’s Gatwick Airport.
