The city of Ahmedabad and the broader Indian community are grappling with the aftermath of last week’s devastating Air India crash that claimed 270 lives, including 30 people on the ground. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, bound for London, tragically went down just seconds after takeoff on June 12, 2025, crashing into a residential area and a doctor’s hostel.
Among the dead was Ajay Ramesh, and miraculously, his brother, Vishwaskumar Ramesh, emerged as the sole survivor—his escape from the wreckage still unexplained.
A Brother’s Final Farewell Amid Grief and Pain
Despite sustaining serious injuries, Vishwaskumar Ramesh insisted on helping carry his brother’s coffin to the cremation ground in Diu—a heart-wrenching moment that showcased both immense courage and profound grief.
Wrapped in white bandages from burns and wounds, Ramesh joined the funeral ceremony only days after receiving emergency treatment. His strength in the face of sorrow drew emotional responses from mourners and family members alike.
Eyewitness Account: Ambulance Driver Recalls Rescue
In newly surfaced video footage, Satinder Singh Sandhu, an emergency ambulance driver, can be seen guiding Ramesh away from the burning crash site. At first, Sandhu didn’t recognize Ramesh as the only survivor, believing the scene was a result of a local accident.
“He was just another victim in need of help,” Sandhu later told BBC Gujarati. “When I came to know he survived a plane crash, I couldn’t believe it.”
Sandhu said Ramesh was in shock, desperately trying to return to the wreckage to find his brother. Despite his injuries, Ramesh made repeated attempts to re-enter the crash site until he was forcibly stopped and brought to safety.
Survivor Speaks Out: “I Still Can’t Believe I Survived”
Speaking to DD News, Ramesh shared his disorientation and disbelief in surviving the disaster.
“For a moment, I felt like I was going to die too,” he said. “When I opened my eyes and looked around, I realized I was alive. I still couldn’t believe how I got out.”
His haunting words echo the emotional and psychological toll of the event.
Investigation Underway: Black Box Recovered
Authorities have confirmed the recovery of the aircraft’s black box, including the cockpit voice and flight data recorders. The official cause of the crash is still unknown, and experts are analyzing the data to understand what led to such a sudden and catastrophic failure.
Investigators are focusing on events immediately after takeoff, raising questions about technical malfunction, structural failure, or other contributing factors.
Community Mourning and Collective Healing
The coastal town of Diu, which lost 14 residents in the crash, has united in mourning. Locals have been offering prayers, lighting candles, and supporting grieving families. Community leaders and volunteers continue to assist survivors and affected relatives.
The Psychological Toll of Survival and Loss
Experts have emphasized the emotional burden survivors like Ramesh face. Losing a loved one in such traumatic circumstances can lead to long-term psychological impacts including PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and depression. Ramesh’s recovery—both mental and physical—will likely be long and arduous.
Honoring the Lost, Supporting the Living
As authorities work toward answers, the priority remains honoring those lost and providing care for the living. Ramesh’s survival story stands as a symbol of human resilience amid overwhelming tragedy.
Conclusion: Seeking Closure Amid Heartbreak
While the investigation into the Air India crash continues, families and communities across India are focused on grieving, healing, and honoring their loved ones. The miraculous survival of Vishwaskumar Ramesh has brought hope and raised critical questions about the disaster.
His story reminds us of the fragility of life and the strength we carry in moments of immense pain.
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