At 11:30 a.m., his mortal remains will be given to his family at Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital before being transported to Rajkot for the last ceremonies.
The funeral service is set to begin at 5:00 p.m.
Gujarat Mourns Former CM Rupani After Tragic AI171 Crash
In a heartbreaking turn of events, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been confirmed among the 241 victims of the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash that occurred on June 12. The devastating incident has left the state and the nation in mourning.
Final Journey and Public Tribute
After formalities were completed at the Civil Hospital, Rupani’s mortal remains were flown to Rajkot, with the aircraft expected to land by 2:00 PM.
His body will be kept for public viewing for one hour before the final rites are conducted, giving citizens a chance to pay their last respects to their beloved leader.
In a symbolic tribute, 2,000 kilograms of flowers will adorn the hearse van carrying his mortal remains, reflecting the love and honor he commanded among the people.
One-Day State Mourning Announced
The Gujarat government has declared a one-day state mourning to honor Vijay Rupani, who served as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat from August 2016 to September 2021.
Rupani’s leadership and dedication to the development of Gujarat are being remembered and celebrated by political leaders and citizens alike.
Details of the AI171 Crash
The ill-fated Air India Flight AI171, a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport with 242 people on board.
Tragically, the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, hitting the doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College and triggering a massive fire.
According to Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel, the total death toll has reached 274, including 33 on-ground casualties.
Survivor and Relief Measures
In a miraculous survival, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, an Indian-British national, emerged as the sole survivor of the crash.
Air India has announced ₹25 lakh in interim financial assistance for the families of the victims. Additionally, Tata Sons has committed ₹1 crore compensation to each affected family, in a gesture of solidarity and support.
DNA Identification Underway
Due to the extreme heat from the fire, traditional identification methods have proven ineffective. As a result, DNA testing is being used to identify the victims.
The process is being handled by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in collaboration with the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU).
So far, the DNA of 45 victims has been successfully matched with their relatives. FSL Director HP Sanghavi emphasized the critical role of scientific analysis in such large-scale disasters.