The whole of Brent is deeply shocked and saddened following the Air India crash yesterday (12 June) with books of condolence and vigils now planned.
Tragically more than 200 people died when the London-bound flight hit a residential area in Ahmedabad just seconds after taking off. Brent is the second most diverse community in the UK and several of the victims are from families within Brent’s Gujarati community.
This tragedy profoundly affects Brent especially due to our strong connections to the region.
Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash in the city of Ahmedabad. This tragedy profoundly affects Brent especially due to our strong connections to the region. I am aware that there are families in Brent who have been directly impacted by this tragedy and I cannot imagine the pain and sorrow they are experiencing.
“On behalf of everyone in Brent, I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those affected, and to the families who have lost loved ones. We share in the collective grief and extend our thoughts and prayers to you and your loved ones at this time.”
The Brent Indian Association (BIA) has opened a condolence book at the front of their headquarters (116 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4TH). The BIA has also organised a prayer meeting on Saturday, 14 June, from 5pm to 7pm to honour the lives lost and support those left behind.
The council has also opened books of condolences at its libraries in Brent Civic Centre and on Ealing Road and Kingsbury.
For those seeking assistance or information please call the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: 020 7008 5000.
Your Brent is published quarterly and delivered to over 135,000 homes in Brent free of charge.