On October 6, 2024, Marina Beach in Chennai hosted a spectacular Indian Air Force (IAF) air show that drew a record crowd of nearly 1.5 million people. While the event showcased breathtaking aerobatic performances, it was overshadowed by tragedy as five spectators succumbed to heatstroke and many others were hospitalised. The BJP blames the DMK Government, stating that the accident symbolised negligence and incompetence.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the air show, the aftermath was grim. According to police reports, 34-year-old V Karthikeyan from RMV Nagar collapsed while walking on Rajaji Road with his family after the event. He was rushed to Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital (RGGH), where he was pronounced dead. Another attendee, 56-year-old D John from Korukkupet, collapsed near the Parthasarathy arch on Kamarajar Salai and could not be saved despite being taken to Government Omandurar Multi speciality Hospital.
A third victim, identified as Srinivasan from Perungalathur, also fainted at the same location and tragically died while being transported to the hospital. Dinesh Kumar, a man in his late 30s, was found dead on the sands of Marina Beach, and a fifth victim remains unidentified. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examinations, and investigations into the exact causes of death are ongoing.
Local hospitals faced a surge of patients experiencing dizziness and dehydration due to the extreme heat. Nearly 200 individuals were treated for heat-related illnesses, with 45 admitted to RGGH, 43 to Omandurar Hospital, and seven taken to Government Royapettah Hospital.
The IAF air show was a much-anticipated event, featuring 72 functional and vintage fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. Families gathered on the sands of Marina Beach as early as 8 a.m., many bringing umbrellas and water bottles to shield themselves from the blazing sun. However, numerous attendees were unprepared for the extreme heat. The show began around 11 am, showcasing the impressive skills of the IAF’s Special Garud Force commandos in a simulated rescue operation.
BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan stated that the accident was a symbol of the negligence and incompetence of the DMK government. “Is this the DMK government’s Dravida model of utter negligence? The tragedy at the Chennai air show clearly shows that the state government was incapable and unprepared for this event. While priority was given to the recent F4 night racing championships, the same attention was not afforded to the air show,” he remarked, urging the government to accept responsibility for the tragic loss of life.
BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla added, “The tragic deaths of five people and the hospitalization of over 200 individuals is not just a tragedy; it is a state-sponsored murder. The DMK government and Chief Minister MK Stalin must be held accountable for this disaster. The chief minister should step down and take responsibility for the incident.”
