5 Spectators Died Amid Air Force's Chennai Airshow Due To Poor Management

At least five spectators died following their visit to the Indian Air Force (IAF) air show in Chennai on Sunday, amid complaints about overcrowding, heat, and poor management.

A man reportedly suffered from sunstroke while riding his bike after the show. He was stuck in traffic for over an hour.

An eyewitness said that, "Volunteers even identified his condition as he was losing control amid the stranded crowd and helped him get off the bike."

A senior medical officer stated that an autopsy would determine the cause of death.

Concerns have been raised regarding the Indian Air Force's efforts to set a Limca Book of World Record by attracting 1.5 million spectators, which exceeds manageable limits, and the inadequate crowd and traffic management by the Chennai City Police.

DMK MP K Kanimozhi advised that large, uncontrollable crowds should be avoided. She made a statement that, "The news of the death of 5 people is very sad and painful when the public who witnessed the IAF adventure program held at the Marina beach in Chennai suffered from the crowd and the temperature was high. Unmanageable gatherings should also be avoided."

Everything was going smoothly ahead of the event, with large-scale traffic diversions and parking regulations in place. However, as the air show approached at 11 am, the crowd grew so large that the elevated MRTS railway stations along Marina Beach road were packed with people. After the event, chaos broke out as the crowd began to disperse, filling every inch of space on Beach road.

The drinking water arrangement in the spectators' area was reportedly inadequate. With temperatures soaring and no public transport available, hundreds had to walk three to four kilometers on crowded roads to find a ride or get to their vehicles. Many, including children, were exhausted and sat on the sidewalk, tired and dehydrated, while others helped those who had fainted or were feeling weak.

Without effective police regulation, vehicles and two-wheelers clogged the roads, often stuck for over two hours. Many police personnel, instead of managing the chaos, were seen riding their two-wheelers and becoming mere bystanders. They did not intervene to assist stranded ambulances until public outcry prompted action.

The Tamil Nadu government, known for raising security concerns about mass gatherings, has not clearly stated whether it expressed its worries to the Air Force or advised against promoting the event. Health Minister Ma Subramanian mentioned that the state Chief Secretary led a coordination meeting with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and other officials, during which arrangements were made according to the IAF's requirements. He added that the Chennai Corporation and Metro Water had also set up sufficient temporary toilets and drinking water facilities for attendees.

The air show featured a  rescue operation by the Special Garud Force commandos, demonstrating their skills in freeing hostages. Additionally, it showcased 72 aircraft, including the Rafale, the indigenously made Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Heritage aircraft Dakota.

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