Ahmedabad Air India crash: Amit Shah says 'pained beyond words'
NEW DELHI: Reacting to Wednesday's Air India flight crash, Union home minister Amit Shah said he was "pained beyond words," while billionaire Gautam Adani, whose Adani Airports runs Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport, also conveyed his condolences on the "unimaginable loss.
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The Air India flight took off from Ahmedabad for London's Gatwick Airport at 1:38 pm, and crashed five minutes after take-off. There were 242 people on board, including the two pilots and 10 cabin crew.
Here are some reactions:
Amit Shah:
"Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed to the crash site. Spoke with the Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police Ahmedabad to assess the situation."
Gautam Adani:
"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground."
Civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu:
"Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.
Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site."
Defence minister Rajnath Singh:
"Deeply anguished by the news of tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the passengers and the crew."
Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman:
"Distressed on hearing about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. My prayers for all families and friends of those on board the flight."
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External affairs minister S Jaishankar:
"Deeply shocked to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. Our prayers are with the passengers and their families."
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis:
"Pained and shocked to know about Air India passenger flight incident at Ahmedabad airport. Praying for everyone's safety."
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge:
"Absolutely shocked to know about the devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat where several passengers and crew members were on board.
It's heart-wrenching to see the horrific visuals. Our heartfelt sympathies, thoughts and prayers with the families of the passengers, pilot and the crew."
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra:
"My heart goes out to the families of the passengers and crew on board the Air India flight. The whole nation is hoping against hope that your loved ones survive this horrifying crash. May God be with all of you."
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