Viswashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the Air India plane crash that killed 241 people, has recounted the harrowing details of his escape and his ongoing struggles in the aftermath. Speaking to the media, he expressed feelings of disbelief and gratitude for his survival, calling it a 'miracle,' while grappling with profound grief after losing his brother in the tragedy.
Mr. Ramesh, who now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), communicated the unbearable pain of his situation, revealing he has been unable to speak to his wife and four-year-old son since returning home to Leicester. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, engulfing the Boeing 787 in flames and ending most of its 241 lives in an instant.
Despite his miraculous escape, Mr. Ramesh detailed the physical injuries he sustained and the emotional toll it has taken on him and his family. He spoke of his difficulties moving, describing the pain in his leg, shoulder, knee, and back, which has hampered his daily activities. Now I'm alone. I just sit in my room alone, he lamented while recalling the overwhelming impact on his family, notably his mother, who has been deeply affected by their loss.
The family is advocating for better support from Air India, highlighting that they have received minimal aid in the wake of the disaster. A spokesperson for the family criticized the airline for neglecting the immediate needs of the victims' families, calling for a meeting with airline officials to ensure their needs are met.
In response to these concerns, Air India stated they are committed to reaching out and supporting Mr. Ramesh and the families of the victims. An interim compensation payment has been offered; however, advocates urge that this is insufficient for the family's immediate requirements. Mr. Ramesh's ongoing struggles underline the complex journey of recovery ahead as he navigates life without his brother and adjusts to the psychological scars left by the horrific event.
