What Happened in the Air India Plane Crash?

New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) Following the tragic crash of an Air India flight headed to London, which took place shortly after its departure from Ahmedabad airport with more than 240 passengers aboard, political leaders nationwide have expressed their sorrow over this calamity.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel took to the social media platform X, voicing his profound sadness regarding the incident and confirming that emergency protocols have been put in place.

"I am incredibly disheartened by the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. I have directed officials to commence immediate rescue and relief operations and to prioritize the medical treatment of the injured passengers. A green corridor has been established to facilitate the swift transportation of the injured to hospitals, where all necessary medical care will be expedited," he stated.

He further mentioned that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had reached out to him, offering full assistance from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Central government for ongoing rescue and relief missions.

Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi remarked on X: "In light of this unfortunate event, the Hon’ble Chief Minister has acted swiftly. Hospitals are on high alert, and all ambulances, including those of the 108 services, are on standby. Senior officials have been dispatched to both hospitals and the airport to guarantee a prompt response. Teams from the NDRF and SDRF 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 remains in contact and is actively directing rescue operations."

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his condolences, stating, "I am pained and shocked upon learning about the Air India passenger flight incident in Ahmedabad. I am praying for everyone's safety."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed: "I am stunned and deeply shocked by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad today. This is heart-wrenching news for all of us. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. While we await more information about survivors, I remain in prayer for everyone’s safety. The crash, which transpired during takeoff, has profoundly affected me. Reports indicate that 242 passengers were on board. My thoughts are with them all."

AAP national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also shared, "God bless everyone."

AAP leader Manish Sisodia added: "This heartbreaking news from Ahmedabad indicates that a passenger aircraft has crashed near a residential area during takeoff. The images of smoke and destruction are deeply troubling. My prayers are with all passengers. May God provide strength to the affected families."

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for transparency in the investigation, stating, "Immediate clarification about the Ahmedabad plane crash is necessary to address all concerns. My prayers go out to all passengers and crew members. The highest level of rescue, relief, and medical treatment must be ensured."

Shiv Sena-UBT Aaditya Thackeray also reacted on X: "I am shocked and saddened upon hearing about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. We are praying for the safety of survivors and extend our sympathies to the families affected. Let us hope for the best."

As rescue and medical teams remain on-site, passenger safety and emergency response are the highest priorities.

Dramatic visuals from the crash site depict thick grey smoke rising into the air, visible from several kilometers away, including parts of Vastrapur. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic and confusion as emergency sirens echoed and local residents gathered nearby.

Emergency responders such as firefighters, local police, and medical services were among the first to arrive at the scene. Teams from the NDRF have also been mobilized to assist with ongoing rescue efforts.

Currently, officials have not disclosed specific details regarding casualties or the cause of the crash. Authorities have urged the public to maintain a safe distance from the crash site to ensure that emergency crews can operate without hindrance.