Bishwaskumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad that claimed 241 lives, considers himself the luckiest man in the world.
Despite surviving, Ramesh faces severe physical and mental challenges. His widely circulated photos and videos escaping from the wreckage captured global attention. Speaking to BBC News, he said, “Surviving is nothing short of a miracle,” though he admitted he has lost everything. His brother, Ajay, who was on the same flight, died in the crash.
Ramesh is currently suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He explained, “I survived alone. I still can’t believe it. It is nothing less than a miracle.” He revealed that his brother had been a great support in his life, and losing him made him feel like he lost everything.
Ramesh shared how life changed for his family after the crash. “I stay alone in a room, don’t speak with my wife or son. I prefer to be alone,” he said.
Air India has stated that taking care of Ramesh and all affected families is a top priority. After returning to the UK, 39-year-old Ramesh spoke to the media for the first time.
When asked about the day of the crash, he said he could not talk about it yet. He also described the difficulty of recalling the event and the severe physical and mental toll it has taken on his life. His mother has been sitting silently outside every day for the past four months.
Ramesh said he experiences constant pain in his legs, shoulders, knees, and back. “Since the crash, I haven’t been able to do anything—cannot drive, cannot walk properly. I walk slowly. My wife supports me,” he said.
His advisors confirmed that doctors in India diagnosed him with PTSD, and he has not received medical treatment since returning to the UK. The advisors also criticized the airline for not providing proper support.
Community leader Sanjeev Patel stated that Ramesh is facing mental, physical, and financial crises, and the crash has devastated his family. He added, “Those responsible need to meet the victims and understand their needs.”
Air India offered Ramesh an interim relief of £21,500, which he accepted, but his advisors consider it insufficient. Before the crash, Ramesh and his brother ran a fish business in Diu, India, which has now completely stopped.
The family has requested meetings with airline officials three times but felt ignored. The airline stated that top officials are in regular contact with Ramesh’s representatives and expect a positive response.
