Viswashkumar Ramesh, the only person to survive the devastating Air India plane crash that claimed 241 lives, has spoken about his miraculous escape, describing himself as the “luckiest man alive.” However, his survival has come at a significant personal cost, as he continues to grapple with both physical and psychological challenges.
The flight, bound for London, tragically went down in flames shortly after takeoff in western India. Images at the time showed Mr. Ramesh walking away from the wreckage, seemingly unharmed, amidst the smoke and chaos. This extraordinary survival stunned the world.
Speaking emotionally to BBC News, Mr. Ramesh, whose native language is Gujarati, revealed the deep personal loss he endured. “I lost my brother as well. My brother is my backbone. Last few years, he was always supporting me,” he shared, highlighting the devastating impact of his brother Ajay’s death in the crash, who was seated just a few rows away.
The ordeal has left Mr. Ramesh struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since his return to Leicester. His advisers report that he has been unable to communicate effectively with his wife and young son, preferring to remain isolated.
“Now I’m alone. I just sit in my room alone, not talking with my wife, my son. I just like to be alone in my house,” Mr. Ramesh stated, his voice heavy with emotion.
He also detailed the ongoing physical pain he experiences, including discomfort in his leg, shoulder, knee, and back, which has prevented him from working or driving. “When I walk, not walk properly, slowly, slowly, my wife help,” he said.
Mr. Ramesh’s family is now calling for greater support from Air India, expressing concerns about the airline’s handling of the situation since the crash. They argue that the interim compensation offered, while accepted, is insufficient to meet Mr. Ramesh’s immediate needs and the long road to recovery ahead. The family’s business, run with his brother, has also reportedly collapsed.
Family spokesman Radd Seiger emphasized the urgent need for Air India executives to engage directly with the victims and their families. “Please come and sit down with us so that we can work through this together to try and alleviate some of this suffering,” he appealed.
In response, Air India stated that senior leaders from the Tata Group continue to offer condolences and have extended an invitation for a meeting with Mr. Ramesh’s representatives, expressing hope for a positive outcome.
- Air India crash aftermath handled ‘irresponsibly’, says court
- ‘I walked out of rubble’: Survivor on how he escaped Air India wreckage
- British man is only passenger to survive India plane crash