DMK MP Kanimozhi expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of five people due to dehydration during the Air Force air show at Marina Beach, Chennai. The tragic incident, which also saw 230 others hospitalized due to heat exhaustion, occurred on Sunday amid extreme temperatures and overcrowding.
Kanimozhi took to social media to express her concern, stating, “The news of the deaths of five people is very sad and painful. Unmanageable gatherings should also be avoided.” Her comments come in the wake of growing concerns over the safety of large public events, especially under extreme weather conditions.
The air show, which aimed to enter the Limca Book of World Records by gathering 16 lakh attendees, saw massive crowds arriving as early as 8 am. The high temperatures, combined with overcrowding and insufficient access to water, led to several attendees fainting from heat exhaustion. Despite emergency medical services on-site, five people tragically lost their lives.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed the deaths, attributing them to dehydration caused by extreme heat. He also clarified that the state government provided all necessary facilities, including paramedical teams and water stations, but emphasized the need for the public to take precautions during such events.
The Opposition has condemned the government for inadequate arrangements, while the Health Minister urged that the tragedy not be politicized.
