Tata Group pledges Rs 1 crore aid to families of Air India flight 171 crash victims
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In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad, Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran has announced a compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of each person who lost their life in the accident.
He further assured that the Tata Group will cover all medical expenses for those injured in the crash, providing them with complete care and support during recovery.
“No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured,” Chandrasekaran said in an official statement.
In a show of extended support to the local community, Chandrasekaran also revealed plans to build a new hostel at B.J. Medical College, as part of the group’s broader relief efforts.
“We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time,” he added.
Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata also expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing the tragedy as one that has caused profound pain across many households.
“This heart-wrenching incident has brought immense grief to countless families, and our thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones today,” Noel Tata said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and stand in solidarity with them during this unimaginable time.”
Air India Flight 171 was en route from Ahmedabad to London and was carrying 242 passengers, including ten cabin crew members. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 p.m., but soon after, it sent a MAYDAY distress signal to Air Traffic Control (ATC). Communication was lost shortly afterward.
The aircraft crashed just beyond the airport perimeter and was seen engulfed in thick black smoke. The flight was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar serving as the co-pilot.
Rescue operations and investigations are currently underway as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash.