Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Ahmedabad, Jun 15: Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani credited rapid inter-agency coordination and immediate action for containing the fallout of the recent plane crash within just four hours. He described the response as a result of prompt mobilization, real-time decision-making, and strong administrative support.
Speaking to reporters, Pani said he rushed to the crash site immediately upon receiving the initial alert. “I was informed of the incident and soon received a call from the Chief Minister’s Office, followed by a directive from the Chief Minister himself, instructing urgent action,” he said.
While on the way, Pani coordinated with deputy municipal commissioners, district officials, and departments including fire services, police, and health. Within minutes, the airport’s fire team reached the site, followed by the deployment of more than 100 firefighters to tackle the blaze.
Multiple agencies, including the police, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), health services, NDRF, and SDRF, were quickly mobilized. A green corridor was established in coordination with the Police Commissioner to expedite the transfer of injured passengers to Civil Hospital.
A total of 98 ambulances from government and private providers were sent to the crash zone. Firefighters successfully rescued over 30 people who had been trapped in adjacent buildings. More than 45 heavy rescue machines — including bulldozers, JCBs, Hitachis, and earth movers — were used to clear debris and enable rescue vehicles to access the area.
“The aircraft’s wreckage, including wings blocking roadways, was swiftly cleared. Damaged compound walls were removed to allow smoother movement for rescue vehicles,” Pani stated.
He stressed the significance of on-the-ground coordination. Senior officials from the Chief Minister’s Office, Police Commissioner’s office, District Collectorate, and other government departments were physically present, ensuring smooth collaboration across agencies.
To support families of the victims, the administration established a single-window help desk at Civil Hospital to provide essential documents such as death certificates without delay. “This system has helped reduce additional distress for grieving families,” Pani added.