Major Plane Crash in Ahmedabad -Air India Aircraft Goes Down, 242 Feared Dead

National News:  In a rapidly developing situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flown to Ahmedabad after the horrifying crash of Air India flight AI171 near the city’s airport. The aircraft, which was en route to London, crashed just minutes after takeoff with 242 people onboard. The incident has triggered nationwide grief, with disturbing visuals of the flaming wreckage spreading across social media. Reports suggest former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also on board, although official confirmation on survivors is awaited.

A Nation in Shock, a PM on the Move

The Prime Minister, who was briefed within minutes of the crash, cut short all other commitments to head directly to the site. His decision reflects the seriousness of the incident and the urgency to personally monitor rescue, medical, and relief efforts. Sources say Modi will visit hospitals, meet families of the victims, and oversee investigations. This is being seen as a moment of national reckoning.

Fire, Chaos and a City in Panic

Eyewitnesses reported a deafening noise as the plane descended in flames near the Meghani Nagar area. The crash caused damage to nearby houses, sparking fear among residents. Emergency services, including fire brigades and police teams, struggled to control the inferno. Videos show a massive blaze and scattered debris, with ambulances rushing to ferry the injured. The emotional toll on the city is immeasurable.

Tata Group Faces Market Fallout

As the owner of Air India, Tata Group faced a swift backlash in the stock market. Within hours of the crash, shares of Tata Motors, TCS, and Tata Steel nosedived, wiping out billions in market value. Investors reacted with panic, fearing long-term reputational and financial damage to the group. Analysts warn that this tragedy could impact not just aviation but consumer confidence in other Tata brands as well.

Security Agencies Probe Possible Causes

Initial reports suggest the aircraft’s rear section struck a tree during takeoff, leading to loss of control. However, the Aviation Ministry has launched a full investigation, and the DGCA is expected to issue a preliminary report within 24 hours. Forensic teams and black box recovery units have reached the site. Authorities are not ruling out technical failure or possible human error.