AHMEDABAD, June 20: Authorities in Gujarat have confirmed DNA identification for 220 victims of the devastating Air India Flight AI171 crash, which occurred on June 12 near the outskirts of Ahmedabad. Of those identified, 202 bodies have been formally handed over to grieving families, officials announced on Friday.
In a detailed statement issued by the Gujarat Health Department, it was revealed that efforts are ongoing to complete the identification and repatriation process. The remains have been released following confirmation through DNA testing—a necessity due to the severity of the crash, which left most bodies badly charred.
The Health Department, working in coordination with forensic experts, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state agencies, reported that 151 of the deceased were Indian nationals, while 34 were British citizens, seven were from Portugal, one was Canadian, and nine victims were identified as non-passengers, likely airport or ground staff.
Of the 202 mortal remains returned so far, 15 were transported by air to their respective destinations, while the majority—187—were sent by road in specially equipped ambulances.
Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel provided the update via the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), assuring that the remaining identified remains would be handed over in the coming days. “Every effort is being made to ensure a dignified process for the handover of remains, along with support to the bereaved families,” Patel stated.
