State Government Launches Comprehensive Relief and Rescue Operations Following AI-171 Crash in Ahmedabad

 Ahmedabad, June 16, 2025, In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, the Government of Gujarat has swiftly mobilized extensive rescue and relief efforts under the direct leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. According to an official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), a full-fledged government response apparatus was activated within minutes of the incident to ensure timely and coordinated action across departments.

Coordinated Compensation and Insurance Facilitation

District collectors have reached out personally to the families of victims to provide support and initiate procedures for compensation and insurance claims. To streamline the disbursement of insurance and ex gratia benefits to legal heirs, district-level accounting officers and designated officials have been appointed as Nodal Officers.

To further simplify the claims process, a Joint Cell has been established at Civil Hospital, in accordance with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) guidelines. New India Assurance has been designated the lead insurer on behalf of the General Insurance Council, while HDFC Life serves as the lead insurer representing the Life Insurance Council.

With assistance from the district administration, help desks of New India Assurance, HDFC Life, and LIC have been set up at the Civil Hospital to expedite claim processing and offer guidance to affected families. Contact details of nodal officers from each insurance company have also been shared with the families.

DNA Identification and Medical Support

Twelve specialized teams are currently conducting DNA sampling in shifts to assist in the identification of victims. As of now, 250 blood samples have been collected from relatives and residents, with 62 positive DNA matches confirmed. Among these, 27 mortal remains have already been handed over to the respective families. An additional eight victims were identified without requiring DNA analysis and were also returned to their families.

In total, 35 mortal remains have been handed over. DNA sample collection is pending only in the case of three victims, whose relatives are currently residing in the United Kingdom and are expected to arrive in the coming days to provide their samples.

To support ongoing medical and forensic operations, the Health Department has deployed more than 855 healthcare personnel, including 100 stationed at the trauma center. This includes both regular staff from Civil Hospital and additional personnel mobilized for emergency response.

Logistical Support and Inter-State Coordination

More than 250 Nodal and Assistant Nodal Officers, along with supervisory officers, have been assigned to facilitate the handover of mortal remains and maintain continuous communication with families. These officers are offering end-to-end assistance—from establishing initial contact to coordinating final rites. Once identification is confirmed, remains are transported via ambulance, escorted by police, to the family’s specified location. Officers also ensure the return of relevant documentation and recovered belongings and remain present through the funeral proceedings.

The State Government is actively coordinating with State Emergency Operation Centres (SEOCs) across the country to assist families residing outside Gujarat. Liaison has been established with nodal officers in other states to ensure seamless inter-state support.

Air Travel and Accommodation Assistance

A dedicated Air India support team is stationed at Civil Hospital around the clock. The airline is facilitating free air travel arrangements for family members of victims based on individual requirements. In parallel, the State Government’s Roads and Buildings Department has arranged for local transport and accommodation to ensure the comfort and convenience of visiting relatives.

Public Assistance and Communication Channels

To handle the influx of inquiries, helplines and control rooms set up by the State Government have received nearly 1,700 calls to date. Each call has been addressed in coordination with the concerned authorities to provide timely and appropriate assistance.

The Government of Gujarat reiterates its commitment to standing with the families of those affected by this tragedy, ensuring that every possible measure is taken to provide support, compassion, and justice during this difficult time.