A profound tragedy struck today as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad at approximately 1:39 PM IST. The aircraft, carrying 230 passengers (including 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian) and 12 crew members, tragically plunged into a residential area in Meghaninagar. The impact saw the plane crash into a doctors' hostel, engulfing the area in immediate flames and thick black smoke. While 30 fatalities have been officially confirmed, authorities fear the death toll could tragically rise to 120 as rescue operations continue.
The nation reels in shock and sorrow, and the Telugu film fraternity has swiftly come forward to express its heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the victims and their families.
Jr NTR shared his grief on X, stating, “Deeply saddened by the Ahmedabad Air India flight crash. Prayers and strength to everyone affected. My thoughts are with the passengers, crew members, and their families.”
Pawan Kalyan, actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister, conveyed his profound sadness: “I am devastated by the tragic Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad. My heartfelt prayers are with all the passengers and crew onboard. While we await official updates, I offer my deepest sympathies to the families facing this unimaginable loss. May they find strength and support during these difficult times.”
Ram Charan also extended his condolences, writing, “Deeply saddened to know about the unfortunate plane crash in Ahmedabad. My prayers are with all the passengers, crew onboard, the affected, and their families.”
God of Masses Nandamuri Balakrishna released a poignant statement in Telugu, expressing the gravity of the disaster: “The plane crash in Gujarat is a terrible tragedy. It is a sorrow beyond words, which has shocked the entire nation. It is heartbreaking that both Indians and foreign nationals have died in this horrific accident. The loss of lives among passengers, crew, and others at the crash site is truly agonizing. In this national calamity, let us all stand in support of the central government. My deepest condolences and sympathy go out to the families of the deceased.”
Several other prominent personalities from Tollywood, including Varun Tej, Teja Sajja, Gopichand Malineni, Sharwanand, Adivi Sesh, and S. Thaman, utilized social media platforms to voice their sorrow and pay tribute to those affected by the devastating incident.
Rescue operations are currently underway, with emergency teams working tirelessly. Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties. Further updates are awaited as the nation grapples with this immense loss.
