Top News

Cockpit Voice Recorder Recovered

On June 12, authorities investigating the crash of Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad confirmed on Sunday that they have retrieved the cockpit voice recorder. This crucial piece of evidence will assist in identifying the potential causes behind the tragic incident, which resulted in the deaths of 270 individuals, including 241 passengers aboard the aircraft. Recent updates indicate that DNA testing is being conducted to return the remains to their families.

Identification of Victims Through DNA Testing

Three days after the Air India flight AI-171 accident, hospital officials in Ahmedabad reported that DNA matching has successfully identified 80 victims, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The crash has claimed a total of 270 lives. So far, 33 bodies have been handed over to their families. Rupani was among the 242 individuals on board the flight heading to London, which tragically crashed just minutes after takeoff.

Additional Casualties Among Medical Students

The Boeing 787-8 (AI 171) was carrying 242 people, and only one person survived the disaster. Among the deceased were five medical students, contributing to the overall toll of 241 fatalities. Dr. Rajneesh Patel, an additional civil superintendent, informed reporters that 80 victims have been identified through DNA matching.

Bodies Returned to Families

Out of the deceased, 33 bodies have been returned to their respective families. These individuals hailed from various locations, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Kheda, and Botad. Dr. Patel noted that of the 51 injured, 38 have been discharged, while 13 remain hospitalized. The BJ Medical College Junior Doctors Association president, Dr. Dhaval Gameti, stated that approximately 270 bodies were transported to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital from the crash site.

Contact with Families of Victims

Alok Kumar Pandey, the state relief commissioner, reported that all families of the 230 deceased passengers have been contacted. He mentioned that only three family members have yet to provide DNA samples, as they are currently abroad. They are expected to arrive by the following evening. Along with the bodies, death certificates are being issued to families to prevent any future complications.

Thorough Investigation into the Crash

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting an in-depth investigation into the causes of the crash. Various central and state government agencies, including the state police, are assisting the AAIB team at the accident site in Megha Nagar. Sources revealed that a high-level multidisciplinary committee formed by the central government will hold its first meeting in New Delhi on Monday to assess the root causes of the accident, including mechanical failure, human error, and regulatory compliance.

Report Submission Timeline

This committee, chaired by Home Secretary Govind Mohan, has been instructed to submit its report within three months. Additionally, 230 teams have been established to coordinate with the families of the victims. On Sunday, three delegations, including some foreign representatives, visited the crash site to assist the investigation team.

Support for Victims' Families

In the meantime, Air India announced that it is collaborating with other Tata Group companies to provide all possible assistance to the families of the crash victims. The airline stated that over 400 family members of the passengers have arrived in Ahmedabad, and various teams are on hand to support them. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's principal secretary, P.K. Mishra, visited the crash site and civil hospital on Sunday to assess the situation and gather information from the injured.

Emotional Response to the Tragedy

Mishra expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating, 'Everyone is saddened. It is our duty to share the grief of the victims and express our feelings.' B. Nidhi Pani, the commissioner of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, emphasized that the recovery of the 'black box' is a critical aspect of the investigation. The city police commissioner, G.S. Malik, also visited the crash site on Sunday.

---