Gujarat Plans Rebuilding of Crash-Hit Hostel Complex Amid Calls for Memorial

The Gujarat government is set to reconstruct the medical college hostel complex in Ahmedabad, severely damaged in last year's Air India crash, but some victims' families are advocating for the site to become a memorial.

Health Minister Praful Pansheriya announced plans for a state-of-the-art hostel worth Rs 105 crore. The Air India flight AI-171 incident resulted in the loss of 241 on board and 19 on the ground, with one passenger surviving. Despite calls for a memorial, citing emotional ties to the site, the government emphasizes the need for safe student accommodation.

Air India, under the Tata Group, has committed Rs 53.12 crore toward rebuilding costs for the 'Atulyam' hostel blocks and nearby facilities. A structural audit deemed the site unsafe, necessitating demolition. The upcoming construction will include a comprehensive hostel framework with modern amenities for students and faculty.

Families have insisted on being consulted before any final decision regarding the crash site. The new hostel is planned to accommodate 236 doctors and will feature contemporary living spaces and community facilities. Budget provisions have allocated Rs 34.65 crore, with an estimated total requirement of Rs 51.84 crore for completion by 2026-27.

(With inputs from agencies.)