Biggest IAF Air Show at Marina Beach Takes a Sad Turn Due to Heat

On Sunday, an all-time high of about 15 lakh spectators attended the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) spectacular air show held at Chennai’s Marina Beach on October 6, 2024. The purpose of this celebration of the 92nd Indian Air Force Day was to draw attention to India’s increasing military preparedness and air power.

With more than 72 planes taking part, the display’s grandeur and impact is expected to make it into the Limca Book of World Records.

Despite the impressive air display and formations, the event took a tragic turn. High temperatures and overcrowding left many attendees struggling to cope, and sadly, five spectators lost their lives due to heatstroke. Over 100 others were hospitalized, with congestion and poor crowd control.

Families arrived as early as 8 AM, hoping to secure the finest view. However, the beach was already crowded by the time the air show began at 11 AM.

An amazing variety of aircraft, including Tejas, Sukhoi Su-30s, Dakota and Harvard vintage planes, and Rafale fighters were on exhibit during the air show.  

K. Annamalai, the chief of the Tamil Nadu BJP, expressed his grief at the disaster and held the DMK administration accountable for its inability to protect public safety. He highlighted the absence of necessities for such a large-scale event, such as water, medical care, and adequate transportation, in his post on X.

Former chief minister of Tamil Nadu and leader of the AIADMK Edappadi Palaniswami also criticized the way the administration handled the situation, saying that insufficient law enforcement and emergency support contributed to the chaos. His views were shared by many, with AIADMK spokesman Kovai Sathyan even demanding the state’s health minister resign in protest at the mismanagement.

IAF Chief Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin were present at the air show, which continues to be powerful sites to India’s aviation capability despite the tragic deaths and negative public reaction. However, the outcome of the event serves as a reminder of the significance of careful preparation and crowd control, particularly during major public meetings.

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