How Did Ramesh Bucharvada Survive the Air India Disaster?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff near Ahmedabad, leaving only one survivor, Ramesh Bucharvada. Discover the harrowing details of his miraculous escape and the ongoing investigation into this tragic event that has left a community devastated.
Key Takeaways
- Ramesh Bucharvada is the only survivor of the crash.
- The flight was bound for London Gatwick.
- The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff.
- Rescue operations were initiated quickly.
- The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
Ahmedabad, June 12 (NationPress) - Among the 242 individuals on the ill-fated Air India flight AI171, which tragically crashed shortly after takeoff near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon, 38-year-old British national Ramesh Vishwaskumar Bucharvada emerged as the sole survivor.
Bucharvada occupied seat 11A, a window seat directly behind an emergency exit on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that was bound for London Gatwick. As reported by Aerolopa, this seat is in the first row of the Economy cabin, located on the aircraft's right side, just two rows ahead of the wings — positioned right behind one of the plane's emergency exit doors.
A video taken shortly after the crash shows an injured Bucharvada walking toward an ambulance, surrounded by bystanders. Speaking in Gujarati, he recounted the harrowing moment: "The plane exploded." When asked about the other passengers, he responded, "They are back there inside (at the crash site)."
Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik confirmed that Ramesh is the only survivor of this tragedy. "The police found one survivor in seat 11A. One survivor has been found in the hospital and is under treatment," Malik told reporters. He added that the death toll is likely to increase as the flight crashed in a densely populated residential area.
The flight, which included 230 passengers and 12 crew members, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 pm IST. Radar data indicated that the aircraft ascended only 625 feet before losing contact with air traffic control less than a minute later. The plane ultimately struck a hostel building of B.J. Medical College and Hospital shortly thereafter. Rescue and recovery operations were conducted rapidly by various agencies, with local workers receiving assistance from armed forces as authorities continued to evaluate the full impact of this tragedy.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this incident with empathy and a commitment to factual reporting. The tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 highlights not only the fragility of life but also the need for rigorous safety measures in aviation. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy as we continue to seek answers.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Air India flight AI171 to crash?
The exact cause of the crash is under investigation by aviation authorities. Initial reports suggest that the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control shortly after takeoff.
How many people were aboard the flight?
The flight carried a total of 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
What happened to the other passengers?
Tragically, Ramesh Bucharvada is the only survivor. The authorities are continuing to assess the situation at the crash site.
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred near Ahmedabad airport, specifically impacting a hostel building of B.J. Medical College and Hospital.
Who is Ramesh Bucharvada?
Ramesh Bucharvada is a 38-year-old British national who was seated in the emergency exit row and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.
