Air India Plane Crash: 60 Doctors Having Lunch in the Building – A Tragedy and Acts of Heroism

The Air India plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad has left the entire nation in mourning. However, the tragedy took an even more dramatic turn when it was revealed that the aircraft crashed into a building where approximately 60 doctors were gathered for lunch during a medical conference. This unexpected twist not only heightened the scale of the disaster but also brought forth incredible stories of courage and humanity.

The Sequence of Events

On the afternoon of June 12, the Air India Boeing 787 took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Barely minutes after takeoff, the aircraft began experiencing technical difficulties. Eyewitnesses reported hearing unusual engine noises and seeing smoke trailing from the plane. Suddenly, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed directly into a nearby building, which was being used as a venue for a major medical conference.

At the time of the crash, around 60 doctors from different parts of the country were inside the building, enjoying their lunch break. The impact was catastrophic—walls crumbled, windows shattered, and a massive fire erupted, filling the hall with smoke and debris.

Immediate Chaos and Doctors’ Response

The scene inside the building was one of chaos and panic. Tables were overturned, and people were thrown to the ground by the force of the impact. However, despite the shock and confusion, the doctors quickly shifted into action.

First Aid and Triage:
Many doctors, overcoming their own injuries and fear, immediately started tending to the wounded. They quickly assessed the most critical cases and began providing first aid using whatever resources they could find—tablecloths as bandages, belts as tourniquets, and water bottles to clean wounds.
Firefighting Efforts:
Some doctors, noticing the growing flames, located fire extinguishers and attempted to control the fire until professional rescue teams arrived. Their efforts helped prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the building, buying valuable time for evacuation.
Organized Evacuation:
The doctors organized the evacuation of the injured and uninjured, guiding people through smoke-filled corridors to exits. They formed human chains to help those who were disoriented or unable to walk.

Arrival of Emergency Services

Within minutes, local authorities, fire brigades, and ambulances reached the site. The presence of so many medical professionals on the scene proved to be a blessing.

Doctors coordinated with emergency responders, providing information about the condition of the victims and helping prioritize the most critical cases for immediate transport to hospitals.
Several doctors accompanied the injured in ambulances, continuing to provide care en route.

Miraculous Survival and Losses

Thanks to the swift action of the doctors, many lives were saved. While some doctors suffered minor injuries and a few were hospitalized for further treatment, the majority managed to escape serious harm. Tragically, a few lost their lives in the crash, and several attendees sustained serious injuries.

Eyewitnesses later said, “If the doctors had not been there, the number of fatalities would have been much higher. Their calmness and expertise under pressure made all the difference.”

Aftermath and Recognition

In the days following the crash, stories of heroism emerged. Survivors and local authorities praised the doctors for their selflessness and bravery. The state government announced commendations for those who risked their lives to save others.

Psychological counseling was provided to survivors, many of whom were traumatized by the experience. Memorial services were held for the victims, and the medical community came together to honor their fallen colleagues.

Conclusion

The Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad will be remembered not only for its tragic loss but also for the extraordinary courage shown by the doctors present at the scene. Their quick thinking, medical skills, and selfless actions saved countless lives and provided hope in a moment of darkness.
This incident stands as a powerful reminder of the vital role doctors play—not just in hospitals, but wherever and whenever disaster strikes.