Family members of passengers on the Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad are growing increasingly frustrated as they wait for the bodies of their loved ones to be identified. The crash, which occurred on June 12, claimed the lives of all but one of the 242 passengers and crew on board, with additional unconfirmed casualties on the ground.
Dr. Dhaval Gameti, president of the Junior Doctors' Association at the BJ Medical College, reported that 270 bodies have been recovered from the crash site, with more potentially still trapped under debris. Only eight bodies have been released to family members so far, with the rest awaiting DNA matches, a process that could take up to 72 hours.
Despite efforts to identify the bodies, family members are growing impatient with the lack of communication and information from authorities. Mumbai resident Rafiq Abdul Aziz Memon, whose nephew was on the flight with his family, expressed concern over the condition of the bodies and demanded proof of their safety.
Dr. Rakesh S. Joshi, medical superintendent of the Civil Hospital, explained that the DNA matching process is taking longer than usual due to the severe burns and mutilation of the bodies. Positive matches have started coming in, with the first DNA-matched body released on June 14.
Family members have criticized the authorities for their handling of the situation, with many feeling left to fend for themselves. Mr. Anil Kumar Patel, who lost his son and daughter-in-law in the crash, expressed disappointment at the lack of support from Air India and the district administration.
Despite the challenges, the Ahmedabad district administration has assigned officials to assist families in the DNA collection process and funeral arrangements. Mr. Patel, along with other families, is hopeful that they will soon be able to lay their loved ones to rest.
Source: The Straits Times