Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (MD)
Mangalore, May 22: In commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the Air India Express crash at Bajpe airport in 2010, the district administration on Thursday May 22 paid a solemn homage to the victims of the crash at Kenjar.
The air crash, one of India's worst aviation disasters, had claimed 158 lives and spared eight passengers.
District incharge minister Ramanath Rai, mayor Mahabala Maarla, deputy commissioner A B Ibrahim and airport officials and others placed wreaths to pay their respects to the departed souls.
Expressing his condolence, Ramanath Rai said, "Four years ago Mangalore witnessed a massive disaster and it is still fresh in our minds. No Mangalorean can erase that tragedy from memory. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy."
After the brief ceremony, the media persons went to the spot of the tragedy, where airport air traffic controller Mahesh Pai paid homage by placing wreaths. Air India officials too had placed wreaths to pay their respects.
Speaking to media, an emotional Pai said, "The day the crash happened, I was the one who gave clearance to the aircraft. I was in contact with the pilot before the crash happened. Every year I come here and pray."
RTO officers, airport officials and others were present.
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