NIA, other central agencies officials visit Ahmedabad plane crash site: Report

Ahmedabad, June 13, 2025 — Officials from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other central agencies arrived at the site of the Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad. This visit shows the seriousness of the tragedy. It also reflects the government’s strong commitment to find the cause of this disaster.

Tragic Crash Shakes Ahmedabad

The crash happened on the evening of June 12. Shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner lost control. It then crashed into a residential area in Meghaninagar, near the airport. The impact caused severe destruction. It also set fire to part of a medical college hostel.

Early reports confirm that 241 people on board died. Additionally, at least 28 people on the ground lost their lives. This makes the crash India’s deadliest aviation accident in nearly 30 years. Fortunately, there was one survivor. Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, was seated near an emergency exit. He is currently stable but is receiving treatment for multiple injuries.

Central Agencies Join Hands for Investigation

Due to the scale of the disaster, the NIA is leading part of the investigation. Their involvement points to the need to rule out any foul play or terror links. Along with the NIA, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and other specialized agencies are involved.

The ATS recovered a digital video recorder (DVR) from the crash site. Investigators hope this will provide clues about what happened before the crash. Meanwhile, the AAIB focuses on technical details. They are examining the wreckage, engine parts, and the black box.

The black box is critical. It contains flight data and cockpit voice recordings. This information is key to understanding what led to the accident.

Challenges Faced at the Crash Site

Rescue teams faced many challenges. The plane carried roughly 125,000 liters of aviation fuel. This caused massive fires. The intense heat slowed rescue operations and made it hard to recover victims.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited the site, said the heat was so severe that “no one could be saved.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the site to offer support. He extended condolences to the families and assured them of government aid.

DNA testing and forensic work are ongoing. Authorities expect to conduct over 1,000 tests to identify all victims accurately.

International Support in the Investigation

Recognizing the technical expertise needed, several international agencies offered help. Teams from the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived to assist.

Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, has also pledged support. Experts say the black box data and forensic analysis will be crucial. They expect it to reveal whether mechanical failure, human error, or other factors caused the crash.

Public and Global Impact

This crash has deeply affected Ahmedabad and the nation. The local community mourns the tragic loss and demands answers. Many also call for improved safety near airports.

On a national level, there is renewed attention on aviation safety and disaster management. Experts emphasize the need for constant vigilance and upgrades in airline operations.

Leaders worldwide have sent condolences. Airlines globally are reviewing their safety protocols. This disaster has highlighted the importance of maintaining the highest safety standards.

Moving Forward: Seeking the Truth

The investigation is still in its early stages. Officials promise transparency and thoroughness. The involvement of the NIA ensures all aspects will be examined.

Authorities urge the public to avoid speculation. They ask media and citizens to wait for official updates. At the same time, they assure families of full support. This includes financial compensation, counseling, and rehabilitation.

In the coming weeks, experts will analyze the black box and forensic reports. Their findings will clarify what happened. Most importantly, lessons learned will aim to prevent such tragedies in the future.