UPDATE: Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad, is struggling with severe trauma nearly four months after the tragedy that claimed 241 lives, including that of his brother, Ajay Ramesh. The crash, which occurred on June 12, 2023, left Ramesh grappling with painful flashbacks and feelings of isolation.
In an exclusive interview, Ramesh, 39, described his survival as a “miracle,” emphasizing that the loss of his brother has “taken all my happiness.” He expressed his struggle to communicate with family about the incident, stating, “It’s very difficult for me and my family.” The Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad Airport, marking one of the deadliest air disasters for British nationals, with 52 British fatalities and 169 Indian passengers among the dead.
Ramesh’s advisers, Sanjiv Patel and Radd Seiger, have criticized Air India’s handling of the aftermath, claiming he has been treated like “a name on a spreadsheet.” They have urged Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, to meet with Ramesh and his family, alleging that he has ignored repeated requests for dialogue. Air India has responded, stating that they are committed to supporting all families affected by the tragedy, emphasizing that care for Ramesh is a “top priority.”
According to a preliminary report from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, both fuel switches of the aircraft were moved to the “cut-off” position immediately after take-off, raising concerns about the crash’s cause, including the possibility of intentional actions. Ramesh’s emotional state remains fragile, as he revealed he has suffered from insomnia and persistent flashbacks about the tragic event.
“God gave me life but took all my happiness,” Ramesh stated, reflecting on the profound impact of losing his brother. “I lost everything – my happiness… My family has totally broken down,” he added, hinting at the mental and emotional toll the incident has taken on his loved ones.
Despite this trauma, Ramesh expressed gratitude for the support he has received from extended family and friends, though he noted that his immediate family members have “totally broken down” since the crash. “I don’t like to talk too much. I’m just sitting on my bed and thinking,” he admitted.
As the fallout from the crash continues, Ramesh’s advisers have publicly decried Air India’s lack of personal care for the victims’ families, stating that the company is failing in its promise to treat them as “family.” Patel emphasized the growing frustration and disappointment, urging immediate action from the airline’s leadership.
Air India has publicly committed to providing ongoing support and has offered to arrange meetings with senior leaders to address concerns. They stated, “We are deeply conscious of our responsibility to provide Mr. Ramesh and all affected families with support through this unimaginable period.” The airline is actively reaching out to ensure that the needs of the victims’ families are met.
As Ramesh continues to navigate his painful recovery, the call for accountability and compassion from Air India intensifies. The community and families are watching closely for any developments that may provide healing and closure in the wake of this tragic event.
For ongoing updates, stay tuned as this story develops.
