Abu Dhabi / Ahmedabad,:UAE-based Indian doctor and philanthropist Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil has pledged AED 2.5 million (₹6 crore) to support families and survivors of the Air India Flight 171 crash that struck BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad on 12 June.
The tragic crash killed four medical students and five family members of resident doctors, while injuring dozens. The Boeing 787 aircraft crashed into student hostels and the college mess during lunchtime, causing widespread destruction.
Deeply moved by the tragedy, Dr. Shamsheer — Founder of Burjeel Holdings — announced financial aid of ₹1 crore to each deceased student’s family, and ₹20 lakh each for seriously injured students and affected doctor families. The aid will be disbursed through the Junior Doctors’ Association.
Recalling his own hostel days, Dr. Shamsheer said, “It felt personal. I once lived in places just like those. The images shook me.”
A seasoned humanitarian, Dr. Shamsheer had also extended support during the 2010 Mangalore air crash. His latest contribution aims to offer both relief and remembrance, ensuring that the dreams of the young medics lost are never forgotten.
