Ahmedabad– Six days after the devastating Air India crash that killed 279 people, authorities have completed DNA matching for 206 victims and handed over the remains of 169 individuals to their families, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel confirmed on Wednesday.
The ill-fated aircraft, which was headed from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed into the B.J. Medical College hostel shortly after takeoff on June 12. The impact caused a massive explosion, claiming the lives of nearly all passengers on board as well as several individuals on the ground.
Identification of the deceased remains a top priority, with forensic and health teams working around the clock to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compassion in returning the remains to grieving relatives.
Earlier in the day, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi provided a similar update, stating that as of 2 PM, DNA identification had been completed for 202 victims and 181 families had been contacted. At that time, 158 bodies had already been released.
Officials described the process as extremely sensitive and legally complex, but emphasized steady progress as forensic teams and support staff continue their efforts.
The crash also left a significant mark on the B.J. Medical College community. Of the 30 medical students hospitalized after the incident, all but one have been discharged. Among the 71 ground-level casualties, two have died from their injuries, 42 have been discharged, and one remains in critical condition. The others are still receiving medical care.
Dr. Rakesh Joshi, who is coordinating DNA efforts, stressed the emotional and scientific complexity of the operation.
“DNA matching is not just a technical process—it carries deep legal and emotional weight. Forensic Science University, along with the health department and local authorities, is working tirelessly to return the remains to families as swiftly and respectfully as possible,” he said.
With more matches expected in the coming days, officials hope the process will continue to accelerate, offering some measure of closure to the families of the victims. (Source: IANS)
