Rajkot’s Heartbeat Halts for a Hero: Markets and Minds Remember Vijay Rupani

Image Source: India.com

Rajkot city came to a standstill on Saturday as markets and schools were closed for half a day as tributes were paid to the late former Gujarat Chief Minister and former MP Vijay Rupani, who had lost his life in the June 12 Air India Flight AI 171 crash near Ahmedabad. The shutdown, which lasted till noon, was marked by an outpouring of grief from the traders, residents, and political leaders, showing Rupani's deep connection with Rajkot and his transformative impact on the city.

Key Highlights:

All large markets—Dharmendra Road, Lakhajiraj Market, Soni Bazaar, Cloth Market, Jewellery Market, and the others—were closed until noon in respect.
The call for bandh was issued by the Rajkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) and the Wholesale Textile Merchants Association and extended the invitation to all traders and businesses to participate.
Thousands of locals and traders also gathered at Dharmendra Road at 11 am to pay their homage to Rupani and the other victims of the accident.
Private School Board declared holiday for around 650 private schools, and 90 municipal schools were shut down.
Individuals and BJP activists offered flower petals and silently prayed in respect for the veteran leader.
Gujarat's previous Chief Minister Shankersinh Vaghela also visited the residence of Rupani to pay his respects, terming his sudden death as "unbelievable" and "saddening.".
Two-time Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, ex-Mayor of Rajkot, and Rajkot West MLA, was most remembered for launching mega ventures like AIIMS, the international airport, and putting an end to the city's water crisis.
A single person among 242 survivors of the Air India tragedy survived, and it was the deadliest air tragedy in recent history in India.

"Vijay Rupani loved Rajkot very much. His love for Rajkot brought about these developments, and Rajkot will never forget him. Rajkot will never forget him," a city resident said, reflecting the city's mood.

Source: Hindustan Times, Times of India, Free Press Journal, DeshGujarat, News9 Live.