Air India Crash Survivor Declares: ‘I’m the Luckiest Alive’
Viswashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the Air India plane crash, has expressed his feelings of being the “luckiest man” alive. However, he grapples with immense pain—both physical and emotional—following the tragic incident that claimed 241 lives, including that of his younger brother, Ajay.
Details of the Crash
The disaster occurred during June when a London-bound Boeing 787 flight crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, India. A shocking video depicted Ramesh escaping the wreckage, despite sustaining injuries. Though he managed to crawl out, he is now facing the psychological toll of the incident.
Survivor’s Struggles
- Ramesh has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since the crash.
- He experiences significant emotional distress and has isolated himself from his family.
- Physical injuries include pain in his leg, shoulder, knee, and back, hindering his daily activities.
Currently residing in Leicester, Ramesh has been unable to communicate with his wife and four-year-old son. His return home has been turbulent, filled with memories of loss and grief, particularly concerning his brother, who played a pivotal role in his life.
Impact on Family and Community
With the family’s fishing business in Diu collapsed after the incident, Ramesh’s advisers claim that the emotional and financial strain on the family is profound. They have urged Air India executives to meet with them to address the ongoing struggles faced by Ramesh and his family. “They’re in crisis, mentally, physically, financially,” stated Sanjiv Patel, one of Ramesh’s advisers.
Air India’s Response
In terms of support, Air India has offered Ramesh an interim compensation payment of £21,500. However, advisers view this amount as insufficient to cover his immediate needs, given the scope of the tragedy’s impact.
Ramesh’s team has made several attempts to engage with Air India executives, but all requests for meetings have been turned down or ignored. Mr. Ramesh’s spokesperson emphasized the need for accountability and support during this trying time.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing investigation by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has provided preliminary findings. It indicated a cut-off in fuel supply to the engines seconds after take-off, contributing to the crash. The full impact of the investigation will be critical in understanding the incident and preventing future tragedies.
As Ramesh focuses on recovery, he continues to confront the harsh realities of his lost family and shattered life. His story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by victims of such disasters and the urgent need for adequate support from caregivers and authorities.
