Thu Jun 12 12:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summary based on the provided text:
**Tragedy Strikes Ahmedabad: Air India Flight Crashes Shortly After Takeoff, Hundreds Feared Dead**
**Ahmedabad, India –** A devastating tragedy struck Ahmedabad today as Air India flight AI 171, en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The Boeing 171 aircraft, carrying approximately 242 passengers, went down at approximately 1:40 PM local time, just two minutes after takeoff at 1:38 PM. The crash occurred in the Meghani Nagar area, impacting a residential building in the IGP compound, where civil hospital doctors and staff reside.
The impact caused widespread devastation, with plumes of smoke billowing into the sky and chaotic scenes unfolding on the ground. Initial reports suggest a catastrophic loss of life, with estimates indicating over 200 fatalities. So far, more than 50 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage, many burned beyond recognition. Reports indicate that plane parts crushed pedestrians, further increasing the casualties.
Emergency response teams, including state government officials, police, CRPF, and Navy personnel, are on the scene conducting rescue and recovery operations. Injured survivors and the deceased are being transported to Civil Hospital and Trauma Center.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are en route to Ahmedabad to assess the situation firsthand. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has ordered immediate rescue and relief efforts and has assured that all injured passengers will receive prompt medical attention. Home Minister Shah has spoken with the Chief Minister, assuring him of full support from the Central Government. Fire engines from Vadodara have also been dispatched to assist in the firefighting efforts.
The airport has been temporarily closed, with Adani Airport issuing a statement advising passengers to contact their respective airlines for updates. Unconfirmed reports also indicate that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was on board the ill-fated flight. The entire state is in shock and mourning following this horrific accident.
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