The only person to survive the catastrophic Air India Express flight crash in Kerala has broken his silence in an emotionally charged appeal, describing his ongoing struggle with severe trauma and pleading for government assistance to rebuild his shattered life.
"It is very painful. I am broken," expressed the survivor, whose voice trembles with the weight of his experience. "I have lost everything." His words reveal the deep psychological scars that remain long after the physical injuries have healed.
The Fateful Flight That Changed Everything
The aviation disaster occurred when Air India Express Flight 1344 overshot the runway at Kozhikode International Airport during heavy rainfall in August 2020. The Boeing 737 aircraft broke apart upon impact, claiming the lives of 21 people aboard the flight from Dubai to Kozhikode.
While the survivor physically recovered from his injuries, the psychological trauma has proven far more enduring. "I am the only survivor of the crash and have been struggling to cope with the trauma since then," he shared, highlighting the unique burden of being the sole survivor of such a devastating event.
A Plea for Comprehensive Support
The survivor has formally approached the Kerala High Court, seeking a substantial welfare package that would enable him to manage the overwhelming challenges he continues to face. His appeal emphasizes that the compensation received thus far has been insufficient to address the long-term consequences of the tragedy.
"The trauma has affected me mentally and physically," he explained in his petition, underscoring how the psychological impact has manifested in tangible ways throughout his daily life.
The Ongoing Legal Battle for Justice
Legal proceedings have seen the survivor request the court to direct both Air India Express and the central government to provide adequate compensation and support. The airline, now under the ownership of Tata Group, faces scrutiny over its responsibility toward the sole survivor of one of India's most tragic aviation incidents in recent years.
The case has brought attention to the broader issue of how aviation disasters affect survivors long after the initial tragedy, particularly regarding mental health support and financial stability for those whose lives are irrevocably changed.
A Voice for Trauma Survivors Everywhere
This emotional appeal transcends a single individual's story, serving as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of aviation disasters on survivors and their families. The survivor's courage in speaking out highlights the critical need for comprehensive support systems for those who endure such life-altering events.
As the legal process continues, many await to see how this case will influence future protocols for supporting survivors of transportation disasters in India and beyond.
