Christian Voices Rise In Grief After Catastrophic Crash
Christian leaders are expressing deep sorrow and extending support to the families affected by a tragic Air India plane crash that claimed the lives of over 200 people.
Air India confirmed early Thursday morning on X that Flight AI171, carrying 242 passengers and crew on a Boeing 787-8 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff.
In a video update, Air India CEO Dr. Campbell Wilson shared that the passengers included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. He added that injured individuals had been transported to local hospitals, and a specialized support team from Air India was en route to Ahmedabad to assist.
India Today reported that Ramesh Viswashkumar, seated in 11A, was the lone survivor, escaping the wreckage by leaping from the aircraft.
According to Flightradar24, the plane lost contact at 1:38 p.m. local time, less than a minute after takeoff. Photos released by the Central Industrial Security Force show the aircraft embedded in a building, surrounded by charred wreckage.
Dr. Akshay Dongardive, in a post on social media, identified the impact site as the BJMC undergraduate hostel dining facility at BJ Medical College. Dongardive, who leads the FAIMA Doctors Association, said the crash injured numerous students.
“Initial reports from BJMC Ahmedabad’s Resident Doctors’ Association suggest that around 32 to 40 students were hurt and are being treated at Civil Hospital Ahmedabad,” he said. “There is no official confirmation yet on any student fatalities or missing persons. We urge the public to avoid circulating unverified details during this sensitive time.”
Alongside prayers for the students, Dongardive shared images of the destroyed dining hall.
Archbishop Joseph D’Souza, President of the All India Christian Council and leader of the Good Shepherd Church, conveyed his condolences through a statement to The Christian Post.
“The nation is in mourning over this devastating crash in Ahmedabad. With over 200 presumed dead, including medical students and local residents, the magnitude of this loss is heartbreaking,” D’Souza said. “I grieve with the families and pray they find comfort and peace through Jesus Christ.”
He emphasized his church’s commitment to offering assistance to those affected, pledging support and continued prayers.
Pastor Greg Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship in California also responded on X, calling the event a “heartbreaking tragedy.”
“With so many lives lost and families in pain, we must come together in prayer,” he urged, calling for spiritual support, healing, and hope for the victims and their loved ones.