June 12, Colombo (LNW): The government of Sri Lanka has extended its deepest sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in a tragic air accident that occurred near the Indian city of Ahmedabad earlier today.
The catastrophe unfolded as an Air India aircraft, bound for London, crashed shortly after beginning its take-off at approximately 1.17 PM local time. Initial reports emerging from Indian news outlets suggest that at least 133 people have perished in the incident. The ill-fated flight was reportedly carrying 232 passengers and ten members of the flight crew.
The scale of the disaster has prompted an outpouring of grief across the region, with Sri Lanka joining the international community in offering condolences and solidarity. In a statement issued via its official channels, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its profound sorrow and alarm at the loss of life, describing the incident as deeply distressing.
“Heartfelt condolences are extended to the families and loved ones of those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy,” the Ministry said in a message shared on the social media platform ‘X’.
While the cause of the crash remains under investigation by Indian aviation authorities, the event has already been marked as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the country’s recent history. Emergency services and rescue operations have been working tirelessly at the crash site, with efforts underway to identify the deceased and provide medical assistance to any possible survivors.
The aviation industry, shaken by the scale of the loss, is also facing renewed calls for a thorough review of safety protocols and aircraft maintenance practices. Questions are being raised over possible mechanical failure or other contributing factors, though officials have yet to confirm any definitive cause.
Back in Sri Lanka, the news has prompted moments of silence in several official settings, with messages of condolence coming from across the political spectrum. The President’s Office is also expected to issue a formal statement acknowledging the tragedy and reaffirming solidarity with India during this period of mourning.
