Ahmedabad crash victims’ families seek clarity as they plan memorial event a year after tragedy

Several families of the Air India AI171 plane crash tragedy in Ahmedabad today announced plans to organise a religious programme at the crash site to mark the first anniversary of the tragedy on June 12.

Pray for peace amid unanswered questions

A representative claiming to be connected with over 200 families who lost their loved ones in last year’s plane crash told media persons that the families associated with him are planning a religious activity aimed at praying for peace for the victims' souls.

He claimed that over 100 families are expected to participate in the event, with attendees likely from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, as well as some from the United Kingdom.

Kuldeep Israani, the representative, claimed that about a month ago, emails were sent to the Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), requesting that the black box data be shared with the victims’ families. He noted that no response has been received so far.

Israani claimed that the families are seeking answers regarding what led to the crash and are now waiting for the final investigation report, which, according to the aviation minister, is expected to be released next month.

Unfulfilled promises by airlines, claims kin

Hetal Prajapati, whose husband Mahesh died in the tragic crash, said that her husband was returning home on Activa via Meghani Nagar, when the crash killed him.

Talking to Gujarat Samachar Digital about the promises made by Tata, she said, “They provided me financial compensation and assured me that they will give me a job as per my education background, but the latter offer remains only on paper.”

Mohammad, who lost his son in the plane crash, said that his son was travelling to London for higher studies when the tragedy occurred.

He stated that initially, the airline had assured the family of full support. However, they are now unable to establish any contact with the airline authorities. He further alleged that the company has neither provided any compensation nor responded to their emails.