Air India Crash: DNA Identification Underway as Families Await Closure Amid Devastating Loss

The Tragic Crash and Its Aftermath

Families Await Closure – The Air India flight AI-171, bound for London, crashed moments after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, on June 12, 2025. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, collided with a medical college complex, resulting in a devastating fireball that claimed 270 lives, including 29 people on the ground.

Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, whose mortal remains were identified through DNA testing and handed over to his family. The crash has been labeled one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Indian history, leaving families in shock and despair.

Authorities have launched an intensive investigation, recovering the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) to determine the cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the painstaking process of victim identification continues, with DNA testing playing a crucial role due to the severity of burns and disfigurement.

DNA Identification: A Race Against Time

With many bodies charred beyond recognition, forensic experts are relying on DNA profiling to confirm identities. As of June 16, authorities have matched 119 DNA samples, and 76 bodies have been handed over to grieving families.

Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, assured families that the DNA profiling process would be completed by Tuesday or Wednesday.

“We understand the pain of the families, but DNA identification is a complex process with legal implications. We are working tirelessly to ensure accurate results,” Dr. Joshi stated.

The State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) are leading the efforts, working round the clock to match DNA samples with victims.

Forensic experts explain that high temperatures affect DNA, making the process challenging and time-consuming. In cases where bodies are completely burned, teeth and bones are used for identification.

Dr. Sudhir Gupta, head of forensic medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, elaborated on the process:

“Even when bodies are charred, bones often remain intact. X-rays of the wrist, hand, or pubic bone help determine age, gender, and height. Teeth are also resilient and can reveal dental records.”

Despite the scientific advancements, families are growing impatient, expressing frustration over delays. Authorities urge them to remain patient, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in the identification process.

Families Await Closure Amid Grief

The emotional toll on families has been immense, with many waiting days to receive their loved ones’ remains. The painstakingly slow identification process has led to outbursts of frustration, as grieving relatives demand faster results.

“It has been 72 hours, and we still don’t have answers. The government should have ensured quicker identification,” said Imtiyaz Ali, whose brother was among the passengers.

Authorities have deployed trained caregivers to assist families, providing psychological support and ensuring a dignified handover of remains.

Meanwhile, Monday was declared a day of mourning in Gujarat, with the national flag flying at half-mast to honor the victims.

The final rites of former CM Vijay Rupani were conducted with state honors, marking a somber moment for the nation.

As the investigation continues, families cling to hope, waiting for the final DNA results that will bring closure to their unimaginable grief.

A Nation Mourns, A Tragedy Unfolds

The Air India crash has left India in mourning, with families struggling to come to terms with their loss. The DNA identification process, though painstakingly slow, remains essential in ensuring accuracy and dignity for the deceased.

As authorities work tirelessly, the nation stands in solidarity with the victims’ families, hoping for swift answers and justice.

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