From engineering teams to medical units, the Indian armed forces launched a full-scale humanitarian operation after the Dreamliner tragedy killed over 200 people.
By Pravin Kumar
In a robust response to the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI 171 near Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Indian armed forces, including the Army, Border Security Force (BSF), and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), have been deployed to assist in rescue and relief operations. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed into the Meghani Nagar neighborhood shortly after takeoff at 1:38 p.m. local time, sparking a massive emergency response.
The Indian Army has deployed approximately 130 personnel to support civil administration in ongoing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts. The Army’s response includes engineering teams equipped with JCBs for debris clearance, medical teams with doctors and paramedics, Quick Action Teams (QATs), fire-fighting units with extinguishers and water bowsers, and provost staff for site management. A Military Hospital has been placed on standby to provide medical support, ensuring rapid treatment for any survivors or injured individuals.
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The BSF has also mobilized a rescue party of 67 personnel, including one officer, to assist local administration at the crash site in Meghani Nagar since 3:30 p.m. Additionally, BSF doctors accompanied by three ambulances have been dispatched to provide critical medical assistance.
#PlaneCrash #Ahmedabad
🔺A tragic plane crash occurred in Ahmedabad, a total of 06 teams of @06NDRF have been deployed for rescue operations, out of which 04 teams have reached the plane crash site for rescue operations, & 02 more teams and Hazmat vehicle are on the way@NDRFHQ pic.twitter.com/FbJsn1DKDH— 06 NDRF VADODARA (@06NDRF) June 12, 2025
CISF personnel, responsible for security at Ahmedabad Airport, were among the first responders, immediately activating emergency protocols. They are working in close coordination with local authorities, fire services, and other emergency units to secure the area, assist survivors, and manage the chaotic scene. “CISF stands in solidarity with the victims and their families in this hour of grief,” a CISF statement read.
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The crash, which occurred minutes after takeoff, has resulted in significant loss of life, with at least 204 fatalities reported and one confirmed survivor, 38-year-old Ramesh Vishwashkumar, seated in 11A, who miraculously escaped by jumping from the aircraft. The plane struck a hostel building at B.J. Medical College, causing additional casualties among residents, including three medical students. Approximately 50 injured individuals have been transported to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, with 30 ambulances and multiple fire brigade vehicles in action.
Gujarat’s Defence PRO reported that over 500 personnel from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard are actively involved in rescuing survivors and recovering victims’ bodies. The coordinated effort includes sealing off roads around the crash site to facilitate operations and establishing a green corridor to transport the injured to hospitals.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu have rushed to Ahmedabad to oversee operations, with Shah assuring full central government support. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has instructed officials to conduct rescue and relief efforts on a “war footing.”
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a probe to determine the cause of the crash, which marks the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) noted that the aircraft, under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, issued a Mayday call before losing contact with air traffic control.
As rescue operations continue, the nation mourns the loss of lives, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was among the passengers. The Indian armed forces’ swift and coordinated response underscores their commitment to supporting the affected families and communities during this tragic time.
