A devastating plane crash in India has claimed the lives of 240 people, including a family from Gloucester. Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa, and their four-year-old daughter Sara were among the passengers aboard the ill-fated flight.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying over 240 passengers from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday, colliding with a medical college and igniting a massive fireball. Among those on board were 53 British nationals. Authorities report that Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British man, is believed to be the sole survivor.
The Gloucester Muslim Community shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, expressing sorrow for the Nanabawa family. They asked the community to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve and noted that no visitors will be accepted at the family home for the time being. The community also urged everyone to keep the victims in their prayers.
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Graphic footage circulated online showed an enormous explosion erupting from the plane, with black smoke billowing from the crash site. Debris including parts of the fuselage, tail, and landing gear was scattered around the B J Medical College building, which bore the brunt of the impact.
Air India confirmed the passenger list consisted of 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals. Downing Street has warned the public to brace for a significant number of British casualties.
In response, Tata Group, Air India’s parent company, pledged 10 million rupees (approximately £86,000) to the families of those killed. They also committed to covering medical expenses for the injured and supporting repairs to the damaged medical college facility.