In Ahmedabad, family members of victims from the Air India flight disaster were providing DNA samples at the hospital, awaiting official confirmation of their losses. The tragic incident occurred when the flight crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in over 260 fatalities.
Among the victims were a retired traffic cop and his wife, who were traveling to London for the birth of their grandchild, as well as a hotel manager returning to Britain with his family after visiting his mother in India for a heart procedure. Other victims included local tea sellers, law clerks, and medical students.
The crash site, near a medical college, left the bodies severely damaged, complicating identification efforts. Authorities reported that less than 10 bodies had been identified more than 24 hours after the incident, prompting the need for DNA testing.
Family members expressed shock and despair as they waited at Ahmedabad's Civil Hospital, sharing memories of their loved ones. Anil Patel, who lost his son and daughter-in-law, recounted their close relationship and how they frequently video-called him.
Javed Ali, a hotel manager, was traveling with his wife and two children to support his mother during her heart procedure. Family members shared their grief and disbelief over the loss, with one relative stating he was not ready to accept their passing.
Bhogilal and Hansaben Parmar were en route to London for the birth of their son’s first child, while Akash Suraj Bhai Patni, a 14-year-old boy, and his mother were caught in the crash while selling tea. The mother is currently receiving treatment for burns, but Akash did not survive.
Another victim, Sanjana Palkhivala, a 25-year-old portfolio manager, was traveling for business. Her parents, who typically did not accompany her to the airport, felt compelled to do so on this occasion, marking the tragic irony of the situation.
As families grapple with their losses, the community has rallied to support those affected, while authorities continue their efforts to identify the remaining victims.