Survivor of AI-171 Crash Escapes Burning Jet, Stranded in UK
On June 12, a significant aviation incident took place involving Air India flight AI-171. The flight was en route from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick when it crashed, resulting in the tragic loss of 241 lives. Among the 242 individuals on board, Viswashkumar Ramesh was the sole survivor.
Crash Details and Survivor’s Condition
As the wreckage burned, Ramesh was seen emerging from the devastation, repeatedly stating, “Plane fatyo che! (The plane has exploded!).” The crash left 230 passengers and 12 crew members dead, many of whom were unrecognizable due to the severity of their injuries.
Over four months post-crash, Ramesh struggles with emotional trauma and physical injuries. Although he displayed remarkable courage by surviving the impact, he now faces personal battles of grief and loss.
Aftermath and Current Struggles
After the incident, Ramesh returned to the UK on September 15 to seek medical treatment under the National Health Service (NHS) and reunite with his family. He expressed frustration about not receiving any medical attention or psychological support since his return. The psychological scars from the incident weigh heavily on him.
- Ramesh lost his younger brother, Ajaykumar, in the crash.
- He has mobility issues that hinder his independence.
- His fishing business in Diu has nearly collapsed due to the tragedy.
Family and Financial Impact
Ramesh’s family faces significant financial hardship. Initially supported by a fishing business in Diu, the family is now struggling as the business suffered a downturn after the crash. Ramesh’s interim compensation from Air India, amounting to £21,500, is seen as insufficient to cover his ongoing needs and pain.
Additional financial strain stems from the stoppage of his wife’s Universal Credit benefits after her return from India, further complicating their situation. Ramesh’s daily life has transformed drastically; he now largely remains isolated, battling both physical pain and emotional distress.
Support and Community Efforts
Community leaders like Sanjiv Patel and crisis management experts have stepped in to assist Ramesh and his family. They advocate for better compensation and support from both Air India and the UK government, noting that the offered compensation does not reflect the depth of Ramesh’s suffering.
Patel emphasized the necessity for a personal meeting with the CEO of Air India, advocating that the unique circumstances of the sole crash survivor warrant such attention.
Future Outlook
Ramesh’s future remains uncertain as he navigates his recovery. He continues to deal with the impact of his brother’s death and the traumatic experience of surviving a catastrophic event. His ability to engage with life and family is hindered by psychological trauma, leaving questions about returning to his former life unanswered.
The situation for Ramesh is critical. His story highlights the challenges faced by survivors of aviation disasters, underscoring the need for immediate psychological and financial support.
