Bhubaneswar, June 12: Senior BJP leader and Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday expressed his distress over the tragic Air India plane crash, minutes after takeoff, in Ahmedabad.

In a post on X, Pradhan said: “Disturbed to learn about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. Rescue operations are underway on war footing and all efforts are being made to ensure all kinds of assistance, including medical assistance. Praying for the safety of everyone onboard. May Almighty give strength to the families of those on board.”

Disturbed to learn about the plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Rescue operations are underway on war footing and all efforts are being made to ensure all kinds of assistance, including medical assistance. Praying for the safety of everyone onboard. May Almighty give strength to the…
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) June 12, 2025

Notably, a London-bound Air India flight carrying 242 passengers and crew crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, triggering a massive emergency response.

The aircraft, Flight AI171, was enroute to London Gatwick Airport when it issued a Mayday distress call moments after departure at 1:38 PM IST. The plane lost altitude rapidly and crashed into the Meghani Nagar residential area, causing a massive fire and widespread panic.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions, followed by thick plumes of smoke visible from several kilometers away. Emergency responders, including fire brigades, police, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, rushed to the scene to assist with rescue operations.

Authorities have yet to confirm the number of casualties, but initial reports suggest several fatalities and injuries. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, with Air India pledging full cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring swift relief efforts.

This tragic event marks one of the worst aviation disasters in recent Indian history, leaving the nation in shock as rescue operations continue.

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