Air India Plane Crash Victims' Kin Seek Memorial as Gujarat Government Commits to Rebuilding Damaged Hostel

Gujarat Government Announces Rebuilding of B J Medical College Hostel Complex

The Gujarat government has announced plans to rebuild the hostel complex of B J Medical College, which was severely damaged in the AI-171 Air India plane crash in 2005. The government will construct a new ultra-modern hostel facility at the same site at an estimated cost of Rs 105 crore, according to Health Minister Praful Pansheriya.

The London-bound Air India flight AI-171 crashed into the medical hostel complex in Meghaninagar area on June 12, 2005, killing 241 persons on board and 19 persons on the ground. One passenger survived the tragic incident. The crash site, which is now being considered for redevelopment, holds sentimental value for the families of the victims, who are appealing to the government to preserve it as a memorial.

In emails sent to authorities, family members of the victims expressed their desire to preserve the site as a "space of memory and reflection". They believe that the place should be acknowledged as a permanent public reminder of the lives lost and the importance of accountability and safety. The relatives have appealed to the government to consult them before taking any irreversible decision about the crash site.

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The redevelopment plan, announced by Minister Pansheriya, involves the construction of a new hostel complex with accommodation facilities for 236 doctors, including those who are married and want to live with their spouses. The project will also include a canteen block and new sub-station building, and will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 105 crore.

Tata Group to Pay Compensation

The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has agreed to pay Rs 53.12 crore to the Health Department towards the damage caused to the 'Atulyam' 1 to 4 hostel blocks, canteen and sub-station building located near the Civil Hospital.

Project Details

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The new hostel complex will be a ground-plus-8 structure, with each studio apartment-style unit featuring a living room with attached kitchen, bedroom and toilet facilities. The campus will also include basement parking, separate accommodation for unmarried PG students, a gymnasium, recreation room and landscaped areas.

Budget Allocation

A provision of Rs 34.65 crore has already been made for the project in the 2026-27 budget, against an estimated allocation of Rs 51.84 crore.