Chennai : Chennai witnessed tragic scenes on Sunday during the Indian Air Force’s air show at Marina Beach, as at least four people lost their lives, and over 50 were hospitalised. The fatalities were reportedly linked to dehydration and exhaustion, as massive crowds gathered under the sweltering sun to witness the air display. Poor crowd management, lack of adequate public transport, and insufficient traffic planning added to the chaos.
The air show, part of the IAF’s 92nd-anniversary celebrations, began at 11 a.m. and lasted until 1 p.m. However, spectators started assembling as early as 7 a.m., and by mid-morning, reports of congested roads across the city began pouring in. After the event, large numbers of people were left stranded at bus stops, metro stations, and railway stations. The Chennai Metro eventually increased the frequency of its trains, but only after the crowds had already swelled.
Health Minister M Subramanian assured that the Tamil Nadu government had extended full cooperation, deploying two medical teams and 40 ambulances at the venue. Temporary toilets and drinking water stations were also set up at the site. Despite these measures, more than 100 people needed first aid across various city hospitals.
The air show, which has drawn record crowds in previous years, saw a tragic turn this time, dampening the spirit of an event meant to showcase the IAF’s prowess.