A British man has emerged as the sole survivor from the wreckage of a devastating plane crash involving an Air India flight that claimed the lives of at least 200 individuals. In an extraordinary tale of survival, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, who was seated in 11A on the London-bound Boeing 787-8, managed to escape shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, located in western India.
According to reports, the flight was carrying a diverse group of passengers, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. Nayan Kumar Ramesh, Vishwashkumar's brother, shared with the BBC that he is still in shock over the incident. "He has no idea how he survived and escaped the plane as the only survivor," Nayan stated. The family is grappling with the uncertainty surrounding their loved ones, as Nayan expressed concern for his brother Ajay, who was also onboard the ill-fated flight.
In a moment of relief amidst the tragedy, Nayan conveyed, "It feels great seeing Vishwashkumar doing well," but the family’s worries persist for Ajay. A relative named Jay provided further updates, revealing that Vishwashkumar had sustained facial injuries and was covered in blood but is currently recovering. Video footage circulating on social media captured Mr. Ramesh walking towards an ambulance with smoke billowing in the background, a harrowing sight amidst the chaos.
The Ahmedabad Police Commissioner, GS Malik, confirmed the survival of one man, stating, "The police found one survivor in seat 11A." He further mentioned that a total of 204 bodies have been recovered, with 41 individuals on the ground receiving medical treatment for their injuries. Among the casualties, three British nationals, Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their daughter Sara, were identified by the Gloucester Muslim Society. Additionally, Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek, who operated a spiritual wellness centre in London, are also presumed to have been on the flight.
The news of the crash has left many families devastated. Ammaarah Taju, the granddaughter of Adam Taju and his wife Hasina, who were aboard the flight, expressed disbelief and despair. They were traveling back from Ahmedabad with their son-in-law, Altafhusen Patel, who resides in London. Ammaarah stated that the family is still clinging to hope that their loved ones might be alive.
The tragic incident occurred less than a minute after takeoff, with the aircraft crashing into accommodations used by doctors. As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the Indian media reported that Mr. Ramesh had shared his boarding pass, which confirmed his identity and seat number.
In a heartfelt statement, the King expressed profound shock over the events in Ahmedabad. "Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations," he said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer remarked on the devastating impact of the news, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as "heart-breaking beyond words."
In response to the tragedy, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has mobilized crisis teams in both India and the UK. London Gatwick Airport announced the establishment of a reception center for the relatives of passengers, where they can receive information and support. The airport further encouraged British nationals needing consular assistance or having concerns regarding friends or family to contact them at 0207 008 5000.
