Tragedy struck when an Air India flight crashed in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff. Initial reports circulated on social media showcasing a man in a blood-stained shirt emerging from the wreckage. This individual has since been identified as Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British national of Indian heritage, who became the sole survivor among the 242 people on board.
Ramesh, currently recuperating in hospital, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the crash, stating that just thirty seconds after takeoff, a loud noise led to the aircraft’s devastating descent. He was travelling with his brother, who sat in a different part of the plane, and he remains unaware of his brother’s fate.
Air India has confirmed that a staggering 241 individuals perished in the crash, placing Ramesh in the spotlight as the miraculous sole survivor. His family, receiving mixed news from him about his condition, was devastated at the loss of their loved ones. A relative shared that Ramesh managed to inform them he was “fine,” though they are grieving for those who didn’t survive.
Doctors report that Ramesh’s injuries are not life-threatening. He is under careful observation, having sustained some minor burns while escaping through a narrow exit by his seat. Eyewitness accounts revealed a scene of horror as Ramesh witnessed fellow passengers fighting for their lives.
Experts have expressed astonishment that anyone from the area where Ramesh was seated survived, given its proximity to critical aircraft components. Nonetheless, in an exclusive interview, Ramesh described escaping flames and the dire moments of uncertainty as he thought he wouldn’t escape the crash.
The crash also tragically affected others on the ground, with reports confirming fatalities among medical students at a hostel that the plane struck. With a death toll that may rise, investigations are ongoing.
The flight, which was en route to Gatwick Airport, carried a diverse group of passengers from various nationalities. Amidst the sorrow, Ramesh’s survival has been hailed as miraculous, prompting heartfelt responses from communities both in India and the UK. While his story is a glimmer of hope, the aftermath leaves a painful reminder of the fragility of life.
Support from authorities and public figures has started to pour in, with many expressing their condolences to the grieving families and recognising the devastating impact of this incident.