National Desk, New Delhi: The IAF Air Show at Marina unfolded as a
breathtaking spectacle, drawing an astonishing crowd of approximately 1.5
million spectators. However, the event was marred by tragedy, as five
individuals lost their lives and two were hospitalized, while around 100 others
received outpatient treatment at local government hospitals.
From
the crack of dawn, throngs of people began converging on Marina, with many
arriving as early as 8 a.m. The public transport system—buses, trains, and the
Metro—was inundated with passengers for hours, all eager to reach the iconic
beach to witness the aerial extravaganza. The scene soon devolved into a
veritable gridlock, compelling attendees to traverse considerable distances on
foot to reach the venue.
In
anticipation of the sweltering heat, numerous attendees heeded advice and
arrived equipped with umbrellas and water. Yet, a significant number appeared
ill-prepared for the relentless sun. While the aerial displays and acrobatics
captivated the audience, the day took a somber turn when five spectators
tragically fainted and succumbed shortly after the show concluded, as reported
by a senior police official.
Among
the deceased was V. Karthikeyan, a 34-year-old resident of RMV Nagar in
Thiruvottiyur, who attended the event with his wife and two-year-old son on a
two-wheeler. Following the conclusion of the show, as they walked along Rajaji
Road, Karthikeyan collapsed near the front gate of INS Adyar. Despite being
rushed to Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital (RGGH), he was pronounced dead upon
arrival.
In
a separate incident, D. John, a 56-year-old from Korukkupet, fainted near the
Parthasarathy arch on Kamarajar Salai while accompanied by his wife, Elisamma,
and his nephew. Srinivasan, hailing from Perungalathur, also collapsed at the
same location. Both were swiftly transported to Government Omandurar
Multispeciality Hospital, but unfortunately, their lives could not be saved,
according to the officer's statement.
Additionally,
another individual in his late thirties was discovered lifeless on the sands of
Marina. The police identified him as Dinesh Kumar, and his remains were
subsequently sent to Government Royapettah Hospital for a post-mortem
examination.
Photo Credit: B. Jothi
Ramalingam
