A Tragic Day That Changed Lives Forever
For Mistry Jignesh, the last 72 hours have felt like an eternity. His 22-year-old niece was among the 242 passengers who lost their lives in the devastating Air India Flight AI171 crash. Ever since, he has spent each day making painful visits to the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, desperately seeking information or confirmation.
Authorities initially promised that DNA matching and identification would be completed within 72 hours. But on Saturday, Jignesh received heartbreaking news: the process may take longer.
The Agonizing Wait for DNA Confirmation
“When people are still missing, how can DNA matching be over? What if my niece’s remains haven’t even been found?” he asked in frustration, grief echoing in his voice. Despite the urgency, officials declined to provide details. However, anonymous sources from the fire and police departments confirmed that recovery operations were still ongoing.
The Crash of Air India AI171: What We Know So Far
The Boeing 787–8 Dreamliner, en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The aircraft exploded into a massive fireball, making it India’s worst aviation disaster in recent history. Tragically, only one out of 242 passengers and crew survived.
At least eight more people were killed on the ground, as the plane crashed into a medical college hostel in a densely populated area.
Investigation Launched and Safety Measures Ordered
The Government of India launched a high-level inquiry into the crash and ordered inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft operated by Indian carriers. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with international aviation experts called in to assist.
Challenges in Identifying the Victims
The hospital staff and forensic teams are working around the clock, but the fire severely damaged many bodies. HP Sanghvi, Director of Forensic Sciences in Gandhinagar, emphasized the complexity of the situation:
“There is no room for error. Each family must receive the correct remains. But the fire has likely damaged the DNA of some passengers.”
Dental Records: A Last Resort for Identification
Forensic dentist Jaishankar Pillai explained that dental records might be the only viable identification method in several cases:
“Some remains are so badly burned that only dental records can help. It’s a slow and emotional process, but we’re doing everything we can.”
Families Torn Between Hope and Despair
Outside the hospital, families waited in painful silence, overwhelmed by uncertainty. One woman, too emotional to speak, hurried into her car, her face reflecting the unbearable grief of waiting.
The Disappearance of Mahesh Kalwadia
Karthik Kalwadia spoke to his brother Mahesh, a well-known music composer in the Gujarati film industry, just 30 minutes before the crash. Mahesh was heading home from work and had called his wife to say, “I’m coming home.” That was the last time anyone heard from him.
Karthik has filed a police complaint and visited hospitals, but no trace of Mahesh or even his scooter has been found. “It’s like he vanished into thin air,” Karthik said, his voice breaking.
The Wounds Left Behind in the City
The crash’s impact wasn’t just limited to the families of passengers. Four wards of BJ Medical College, located near the crash site, were vacated. A student shared:
“Only a few people are left here. Most students have gone home. They’re haunted by what they witnessed.”
The Heartbreaking Reality for Javed’s Family
Imtiaz Ali Saeed initially refused to believe his brother Javed, along with Javed’s wife and two children, could have died in the crash. By Saturday, grief had sunk in.
“We’re now discussing whether to bury them here or in Britain, where his wife’s family lives,” Imtiaz said. “It doesn’t matter where—they’re gone. From dust to dust.”
Closure Remains Elusive for Grieving Families
As time drags on, families like Jignesh’s continue to wait in unimaginable emotional limbo. With each passing hour, hope fades a little more. Authorities are working tirelessly, but for those affected, closure feels painfully out of reach.
A Reminder of Life’s Fragility
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is a stark reminder of how suddenly life can change. As the nation seeks answers and justice, families cling to memories and search for closure.
In the end, it’s not just about how the victims died—but how they lived, loved, and were loved. May their memories live on, not only in tragedy but in the hearts they left behind.