The bishop of the Good Shepherd Church of India has urged the nation to come together in prayer and compassion following a deadly Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad that is believed to have killed more than 200 people.

In a statement shared with Premier Christian News, Rt Rev Joseph D’Souza described the tragedy as a “sudden and tragic loss of life” and expressed deep sorrow for the victims, many of whom are feared to include medical students and local residents caught in the crash zone.

Bishop D’Souza said: “I cannot imagine the confusion and grief that the family and friends of those involved are enduring right now. But I am grieving with them, and I am praying that God will comfort them and bring them peace, in Jesus’ name.”

Emergency services rushed to the crash site in the early hours of the morning as the scale of the devastation became clear.

Reports suggest the aircraft came down near a residential area, igniting buildings and prompting a large-scale rescue operation.

The Good Shepherd Church of India has pledged to assist however it can during the crisis.

D’Souza added: “Indians nationwide must come together and find ways to comfort and support all who have been affected by this awful and painful tragedy.”

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.