Air India fatal crash in Gujarat impacts Tairāwhiti’s Indian community

Arish Naresh, president of Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council, said the Air India disaster was deeply saddening.

Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council is “deeply saddened” and says members of Gisborne’s Indian community will be affected by the Air India plane crash that killed 265 people in Gujarat.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic event,” Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council (TMC) president Arish Naresh told the Gisborne Herald on Friday.

Air India Flight AI171 was leaving Ahmedabad Airport in western India for London carrying 242 passengers when it crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday.

Air India said only one person on the plane survived and at least another 24 died on the ground when the Boeing 787 Dreamliner hit buildings.

Naresh said Gisborne’s Indian community would be hit hard by the crash.

“The accident occurred in Gujarat, a region with which we have strong cultural and community ties.

“Gisborne is home to a vibrant Gujarati community who have called Tairāwhiti home for a long time and are part of running successful businesses amongst other things, and many in our local migrant communities will be feeling the impact of this tragedy.”

“We also understand that the passengers included individuals from various nationalities, so these types of events can be distressing for many, especially those who know someone impacted directly or through their networks.”

Naresh said anyone affected by the crash should consider seeking support.

“In times like these it’s important to come together and offer support. We encourage anyone affected to seek comfort within their community, and if needed, to access mental health services available to help cope with grief and distress.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected and we hope that they can find strength during this difficult time.”