Heat and Lack of Water Blamed for Deaths at Chennai Air Show

The Indian Air Force’s air show in Chennai ended in tragedy, as five people lost their lives and nearly 100 were hospitalized due to extreme heat and insufficient amenities. Held at Marina Beach, the event drew over 1.5 million attendees, many of whom were exposed to the scorching sun for hours without adequate access to water or shade. Witnesses and victims' families blamed the deaths on poor event planning and a lack of essential resources.

The state government had reportedly anticipated a large crowd and made some arrangements, including deploying ambulances and medical staff. However, attendees described the event as a disaster, citing a severe shortage of water and medical assistance. Several attendees collapsed from heat exhaustion, and there were reports of chaotic traffic, with gridlocked roads preventing timely medical interventions.

One family recounted the heart-wrenching story of how their loved one collapsed after the event and could not be saved in time. The temperature during the event reached 34.3°C, combined with high humidity, creating dangerous conditions for those present.

The incident has led to widespread criticism of the Tamil Nadu government, with opposition parties accusing them of negligence and mismanagement. The event’s poor organization has sparked a debate over the need for better planning, especially when dealing with large crowds in extreme weather conditions. The government has promised to address these concerns for future events.