Principal Secretary Leads On-Ground Review of Crash Aftermath
In a prompt and compassionate response to the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, arrived in the city on June 15, 2025. His visit was aimed at overseeing relief operations, offering support to victims’ families, and ensuring inter-agency coordination for investigation and recovery.
The visit underlined Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s directive to prioritize humanitarian support, speedy investigation, and full institutional backing to affected families.
Site Inspection and Briefing by Authorities
Dr. Mishra began his visit at the accident site near B.J. Medical College, Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad. Senior officials from the State Government, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and the Airports Authority of India briefed him on the timeline of the incident and the initial emergency response.
He also reviewed the immediate aftermath protocols, including the safe recovery of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR).
Hospital Visit: Meeting Families and Injured
Later, at the Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, Dr. Mishra met bereaved families and injured survivors. He observed DNA matching procedures and asked medical teams to expedite identification with utmost sensitivity.
He instructed hospital authorities to:
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Prioritize critical medical care
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Ensure continuous communication with families
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Facilitate emotional and logistical support
This part of the visit emphasized dignity and empathy in the government’s response.
DNA Testing Oversight at Gandhinagar
Dr. Mishra then visited the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Gandhinagar, where he evaluated the DNA sample collection and testing process. He urged the team to maintain scientific accuracy while working against time to identify victims swiftly.
This move is crucial for enabling timely handover of remains to families and beginning the healing process.
High-Level Coordination Meeting
At Circuit House, Ahmedabad, Dr. Mishra chaired a review meeting involving:
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Officials from Central and State Governments
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Experts from AAIB
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Representatives from Airports Authority of India
Discussions focused on:
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Rescue and medical aid
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Crash investigation protocols
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Preventive measures for aviation safety
In coordination with international norms, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also conducting an independent probe, as the aircraft involved was of American make.
Assurance from the PMO
Dr. Mishra reiterated PM Modi’s commitment to:
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Supporting families with all necessary aid
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Ensuring accountability through investigation
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Facilitating a collaborative response across agencies
He was accompanied by Shri Tarun Kapoor (Advisor to the PM) and Shri Mangesh Ghildiyal (Deputy Secretary, PMO), highlighting the seriousness with which the PMO is monitoring the situation.
Conclusion
The Ahmedabad plane crash has left the nation in shock. But the swift on-ground leadership by Dr. P. K. Mishra reflects the government’s human-centric response. With international and domestic agencies involved, a thorough investigation is expected. The PMO’s proactive stance assures that no aspect will be overlooked, and families will not be left alone in this tragedy.
