Rajkot: Preparations are underway in Rajkot for the final rites of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash near Ahmedabad while en route to London for a family function. His body will be brought to Rajkot after DNA identification procedures are completed at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.
The Rupani family has decided to hold the last rites in Rajkot. His mortal remains will be kept at his residence in Prakash Society, located on Nirmala Convent School Road. Special arrangements have been made for people to pay their respects.
As a mark of respect, local businesses in Rajkot observed a half-day closure, and all private and municipal schools remained shut for the day. On Friday, top political figures including the Prime Minister and Chief Minister visited Rupani’s wife, Anjaliben Rupani, and other family members to offer their condolences.
The Rajkot Police have issued a detailed traffic advisory, outlining multiple road closures and no-parking zones along the funeral procession route. The following areas will be temporarily restricted to traffic (except official and funeral vehicles):
From Prakash Society residence to Nagnath Mahadev Temple via Prakash Society Main Road
Nirmala Road to Kotecha Chowk, Kalawad Road
Swaminarayan Temple, Mahila College Underbridge
Tagore Road , Rajmandir Fast Food T-Point
Dr. Dastur Marg to Yagnik Road
Haribhai Hall Chowk, Malaviya Chowk, Trikon Baug Chowk
Dhebar Chowk, RMC Chowk, Karansinhji Chowk, Sangnwa Chowk
Rajshree Cinema, Bhupendra Road, Palace Road T-Point
Kothariya Police Chowki, Viraniwadi Chowk, Garud Garbi Chowk
From Panjrapole on Bhavnagar Road to Ramnathpara Crematorium
From Bhichri Naka to the crematorium on the Gadhni Rang route
During the procession, no vehicle will be allowed to cross the route from either side streets or intersections.
A public condolence meeting will also be held at Racecourse Ground in Rajkot at the Kavishree Ramesh Parekh Rangmanch. The venue is being prepared to accommodate around 2,500 attendees, with arrangements including seating and a German dome. Senior BJP leaders and party workers from across Gujarat are expected to attend the tribute event.
This tragic loss has sent shockwaves through the state, and the final farewell is expected to draw thousands of mourners.