A British man, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, has miraculously survived the devastating Air India plane crash that claimed over 200 lives in Ahmedabad, India. Ramesh, seated in 11A on the London-bound Boeing 787-8 flight, was the sole survivor of the catastrophic incident.
According to reports, Ramesh recounted the horrifying moments after the crash, saying, “When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran.” He described the scene as chaotic, with “pieces of the plane scattered everywhere”. An unidentified person helped him into an ambulance, which rushed him to the hospital.
Ramesh’s brother, Nayan Kumar Ramesh, expressed shock and devastation, stating, “I last spoke to him yesterday morning. We’re devastated, just devastated. He said I have no idea how I exited the plane.” His cousin, Ajay Valgi, confirmed that Ramesh called his family to say he was “fine”, but the whereabouts of his brother, Ajay, who was also on the plane, remain unknown.
The Ahmedabad Police Commissioner, GS Malik, confirmed that Ramesh was the sole survivor, saying, “The police found one survivor in seat 11A. One survivor has been found in the hospital and is under treatment. Cannot say anything about the number of deaths yet.” Ramesh is currently receiving treatment for injuries to his chest, eyes, and feet.
The Indian government has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, saying it was “heart-breaking beyond words”. The UK government has also responded, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressing his thoughts with the families affected. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has arranged crisis teams in India and the UK to support those affected.
The King and his wife expressed their “special prayers and deepest possible sympathy” with the families and friends of those affected. London Gatwick Airport has set up a reception center for relatives of passengers, providing information and support. British nationals requiring consular assistance can call 0207 008 5000.