Ahmedabad: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic crash of an Air India flight carrying 242 passengers amid media reports that at least 133 were dead. Expressing his deep sorrow Modi said: "The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected." On his part, Indian Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said that rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Naidu expressed his shock saying he was devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. "We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action," he said.
Official Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal also said that many lives have been lost in the tragic accident, adding the relevant authorities will update on the same.
Air India's Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick crashed soon after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. There were 169 Indians, 53 Britons, 7 Portuguese, and a Canadian on board, along with two pilots and 10 crew members.