Ahmedabad Plane Crash: PM Modi Coordinates with Amit Shah, UK PM Mourns Victims

Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed into Ahmedabad’s Meghani Nagar, a densely populated residential area, minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly engaged with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to oversee rescue and relief operations, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed profound grief over the tragedy, which claimed at least 30 lives, including 53 British nationals. The nation mourns as emergency teams battle to save survivors.

High-Level Response to Crisis

PM Modi, addressing the crisis spoke with Amit Shah to ensure rapid deployment of resources. Shah, in coordination with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, mobilized National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Border Security Force (BSF) teams to the crash site, where thick smoke and flames have complicated rescue efforts. Modi, who is en route to Ahmedabad, directed agencies to prioritize survivor rescue and medical aid, with a green corridor established to rush the injured to hospitals. The Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement on X, assuring full support to affected families, while Air India activated a helpline (1800-258-7575).

PM Narendra Modi tweets, "The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected." pic.twitter.com/HWX2yR3kZ9

— ANI (@ANI) June 12, 2025

International Condolences and Investigation

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, noting the loss of 53 UK citizens, extended condolences on X, pledging cooperation with Indian authorities. The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is sending experts to assist the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in probing the crash. The pilot’s MAYDAY call seconds before the crash suggests a sudden failure, with early focus on engine or electrical issues. Flightradar24 recorded signal loss at 08:08:51 UTC, aligning with the 1:39 PM IST impact time.

Chaos and Community Resilience

Videos on X show Meghani Nagar engulfed in smoke, with residents aiding rescuers amidst shattered homes. The crash’s impact on the community has sparked grief and calls for stricter aviation safety. As investigations unfold and Modi oversees relief, the focus remains on supporting victims and uncovering the cause of this heart-wrenching tragedy.