India’s Fateful June: A Month of Disasters?

June has proven to be a calamitous month for India, with a string of devastating accidents and disasters occurring since 2023. A social media post highlights three such incidents that have left a trail of destruction and loss of life.

Odisha Train Collision (June 2, 2023)

One of the most tragic incidents occurred on June 2, 2023, when a train collision in Odisha resulted in significant damage and loss of life. The train derailment caused widespread shock and concern, with many questioning the safety measures in place.

Punjab Train Accident (June 2, 2024)

Exactly a year later, on June 2, 2024, another train accident occurred in Punjab. The train crash resulted in damage and loss of life, further emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols.

Air India Plane Crash (June 12, 2025)

On June 12, 2025, an Air India plane crashed in Gujarati, resulting in significant damage and loss of life. The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many calling for an immediate investigation into the cause of the crash.

• The Air India plane crash occurred on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Here’s what we know so far:
  Flight Details: The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff at 1:38 pm local time.
• Casualties: There were 241 confirmed fatalities out of 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The sole survivor is a British national of Indian origin who was seated in seat 11A.
• Investigation: A high-level committee has been formed by the central government to investigate the incident and suggest comprehensive guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation, and one of the two black boxes, the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR), has been recovered.
• Compensation: The insurance payout for passengers will be governed by the Montreal Convention. The airline will have to pay around Rs 1.5 crore each to the kin of victims, with the total compensation expected to be around Rs 360 crore.
• Response and Relief: Air India has set up a dedicated passenger hotline number and assistance centers for the relatives and friends of the victims. The government has also initiated relief and rescue operations, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies deployed to the site.
• Airport Operations: The Ahmedabad airport was temporarily closed after the crash but has since resumed limited flight operations.

Ghana’s June Disaster

In a different part of the world, Ghana experienced a devastating disaster on June 3, 2015, when a fuel station explosion near Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, triggered by flooding, claimed over 150 lives. The incident highlighted the importance of proper waste management, drainage systems, and adherence to safety regulations. This disaster has left a lasting impact, with many still calling for accountability and sustained action to prevent similar tragedies.

The recurring disasters in June highlight the need for increased safety measures and vigilance in India’s transportation sector. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.