The Indian Air Force (IAF) air show held at Chennai’s Marina Beach drew a massive crowd of around 15 lakh people, captivated by the aerobatic maneuvers of various aircraft. However, the successful event turned tragic as five people lost their lives, reportedly due to heatstroke, while two others were hospitalized. Around 100 individuals received outpatient treatment at government hospitals.
As early as 8 a.m., large crowds began gathering at Marina Beach. Public transport systems, including buses, trains, and the Metro, were packed as people made their way to the beach to witness the show. With traffic gridlocked in the surrounding areas, many had to walk significant distances to reach the venue.
Although many attendees came prepared with umbrellas and water, others arrived without precautions, exposing themselves to the scorching heat. While the air show enthralled the audience, the extreme heat took its toll, leading to the collapse of several individuals after the event concluded.
One of the victims, 34-year-old V. Karthikeyan from RMV Nagar, Thiruvottiyur, fainted while walking along Rajaji Road with his wife and young child. He was immediately taken to Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (RGGGH), but doctors declared him dead on arrival.
In another incident, 56-year-old D. John from Korukkupet, who had come with his wife and nephew, collapsed near the Parthasarathy arch on Kamarajar Salai. Alongside him, another man, Srinivasan from Perungalathur, also fainted. Both were rushed to the Government Omandurar Multispeciality Hospital, but unfortunately, their lives could not be saved.
Additionally, a man in his late thirties, identified as Dinesh Kumar, was found deceased on the sands of Marina Beach. His body was sent to Government Royapettah Hospital for post-mortem examination.
Authorities reported that nearly 100 individuals sought medical treatment for dizziness and dehydration. Forty-five people were treated at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, 43 at Omandurar Hospital, and seven at Government Royapettah Hospital.
The incident highlights the risks posed by extreme weather conditions during large-scale outdoor events, especially in Chennai’s unforgiving heat.