New Delhi, A festive evening turned tragic at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) in Kerala, southern India, as at least four individuals lost their lives and dozens were left injured in a crowd crush during an outdoor concert.
The incident unfolded at the university’s outdoor auditorium, where a concert was scheduled to take place. Reports indicate that a sudden downpour prompted the crowd gathered outside the auditorium to seek cover, leading to chaos and a stampede. Numerous people slipped on stairs, and tragically, some were trampled in the ensuing commotion.
Expressing his condolences, Kerala State Governor Arif Mohammad Khan conveyed deep shock over the demise of four students at CUSAT. He extended heartfelt sympathies to their families and offered prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured.
State Health Minister Veena George confirmed that four individuals were brought dead to Kalamassery Medical College Hospital, with an additional four in critical condition. Over 60 people sustained injuries in the tragic incident.
According to local police officials, the crowd surge occurred as attendees rushed for cover during the unexpected rainfall. The slippery conditions on the stairs exacerbated the situation, resulting in the unfortunate stampede.
This incident marks one of the deadliest crowd crushes in recent history, recalling a tragic event a decade ago when over 115 people lost their lives during a religious festival in central Madhya Pradesh state.
By AFP
