Viswashkumar Ramesh, a 39-year-old resident of Leicester, has emerged as the sole survivor of the May 11, 2023, Air India crash in Ahmedabad, India. This tragic event, which occurred just minutes after the plane’s departure from Ahmedabad’s airport en route to London, claimed the lives of all 242 individuals onboard, including the passengers and crew. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, registered as VT-ABE, crashed into the residential area of Meghani Nagar, sparking a global outpouring of condolences and raising serious questions about aviation safety and corporate responsibility.
Ramesh, who was seated in row 11, 11A, recounted how he managed to unbuckle his seatbelt and crawl out of the plane through an opening that remained intact in the fuselage. His account of the crash, marked by its suddenness and the lack of warning, has contributed to the profound trauma and grief that he and his family continue to endure. Despite being the only survivor, Ramesh has found himself at a crossroads where his miraculous escape is overshadowed by the profound loss of his brother and the debilitating effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His emotional state and mental health issues are now at the forefront of discussions regarding the support systems for survivors of such traumatic events.
The aftermath of the crash has had a significant bearing on Ramesh’s personal life, with his family reporting that he has been struggling with severe anxiety and a sense of isolation. The mental health professionals cited by his advisors have noted that his condition has led to an inability to engage in everyday activities and maintain close personal relationships. Ramesh’s account of his trauma, described as ‘every day is painful for the whole family,’ reflects the broader impact of the crash not only on the immediate victims but also on their loved ones and the community at large.
As the search for answers and accountability continues, the families of the victims, including the affected Air India employees, are calling for a comprehensive review of the incident and its implications. The emotional and psychological devastation experienced by Ramesh and the other survivors underscores the need for ongoing support and effective rehabilitation strategies. The airline, owned by the Tata Group, has expressed its commitment to providing care for those affected, but the demand for a more direct and meaningful engagement with the families remains unanswered. The tragedy has sparked wider conversations about aviation safety measures, corporate responsibility, and the long-term support required for individuals and families who have suffered such tragic losses.