Gujarat, Maharashtra and West Bengal CMs mourn Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad

Political leaders nationwide express grief and call for swift rescue and relief efforts after an Air India flight bound for London crashes shortly after takeoff, carrying over 240 passengers

New Delhi: An Air India flight carrying more than 240 passengers crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport on Thursday en route to London. Authorities immediately launched rescue operations as thick smoke rose from the wreckage, visible for kilometres around.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel took to X (formerly Twitter) to convey his deep sorrow. He said emergency measures were already in motion, with rescue and relief teams deployed “on a war footing.” A green corridor has been cleared for ambulances ferrying injured passengers, and all necessary medical arrangements are being prioritized. Patel added that Home Minister Amit Shah had assured full support from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the central government.

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Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi echoed these updates, noting that hospitals are on high alert and all 108 ambulance services are ready. Senior officials were dispatched to both the airport and nearby hospitals, while NDRF and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams reached the crash site swiftly. He confirmed that the Prime Minister’s Office is monitoring developments closely.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis posted on X: “Pained and shocked to learn about the Air India passenger flight incident in Ahmedabad. Praying for everyone’s safety,”

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said she was “Stunned and profoundly shocked by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad today. This is heartbreaking news for all of us. I extend my condolences to the families of the victims. While we await details on survivors, I continue to pray for everyone’s safety. The crash, which occurred during takeoff, has shaken me deeply. Reports suggest that 242 passengers were on board. I pray for them all”.

AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal simply wrote, “God bless everyone.”

Former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia  added “Heartbreaking news from Ahmedabad. A passenger aircraft has crashed near a residential area during takeoff. Images of smoke and devastation are deeply disturbing. My prayers for the safety of all passengers. May God give strength to affected families.”

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav stressed the need for a transparent probe, urging authorities to clear all doubts. “There should be immediate clarification regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash so that all doubts are addressed. Prayers for all passengers and crew members. The highest level of rescue, relief, and medical treatment must be ensured,” He said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also reacted on X “Shocked and saddened to hear about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. We are praying for the safety of survivors and extend our sympathies to the families of those affected. Let’s hope for the best.”

Firefighters, local police and emergency medical teams rushed to the scene alongside NDRF operatives. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as sirens blared and residents gathered at a safe distance. At this time, officials have not released figures on casualties or the cause of the crash. The public is advised to keep clear of the area to allow crews to work unimpeded.