Air India Crash Tragedy: 125 DNA Matches Confirmed, 83 Mortal Remains Handed Over

GANDHINAGAR:
In the aftermath of the devastating Air India crash that shook the nation, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Monday confirmed that DNA identification of 125 victims has been successfully completed, bringing some solace to grieving families. The tragic incident, which occurred on June 12 when a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.

The minister, during his visit to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Gandhinagar, lauded the tireless efforts of forensic experts from FSL and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), who have been working round the clock to match DNA samples and expedite the process of returning mortal remains to families. So far, 83 bodies have been handed over, while identification for the remaining victims is ongoing. Senior police officers and forensic officials have been supervising the operation closely, often staying through the night to ensure speedy and accurate results.

Dr Rakesh Joshi, Superintendent of the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, said DNA verification for 119 victims has been completed, with an additional 14 mortal remains expected to be handed over by Tuesday morning. With the situation growing tense, authorities have been receiving panic calls from distressed families. The Gujarat government has assured that the process is being handled with the utmost urgency and sensitivity, in close coordination with hospital officials and bereaved relatives.

As the nation mourns the victims of one of the most horrifying air tragedies in recent history, the government’s swift response and coordinated efforts offer a glimmer of relief to those awaiting closure.