Indian PM Narendra Modi condoles loss of lives in Lion Air flight crash

"My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the plane crash in Indonesia. May Almighty give them strength and courage in this hour of grief: PM @narendramodi," read a tweet posted by the PMO India.

In a tragic development, a Lion Air Boeing 737 passenger plane, which was carrying 189 passengers, crashed after taking off from Jakarta city in Indonesia on Monday, media reports said.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said rescue officials are trying their best to locate the victims.

"I feel myself deep from the entire family of passengers and crew of Lion Air JT610 that fell this morning. We are exerting all our best efforts to find victims. May Allah SWT grant patience, power, and convenience to all of us," the President tweeted.

The flight was on its way Pangkal Pinang city.

The total number of people on the plane was 189, according to the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), reported The Jakarta Post.

As per BBC report, there is no sign of survivors. The cause of the crash, which involved a plane that had been in operation since August, remains unclear.

Indian connection:

The pilot of the crashed flight was an Indian national.

He was identified as Bhavye Suneja.

Indian embassy in Indonesia also confirmed the tragedy and tweeted: "Our deepest condolences on the tragic loss of lives in the Lion Air Plane crash, off the coast of Jakarta today. Most unfortunate that Indian Pilot Bhavye Suneja who was flying JT610 also lost his life...Embassy is in touch with Crisis Center and coordinating for all assistance."