Four people tragically lost their lives, and more than 20 others fainted at Marina Beach following the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) air show on October 6, as reported by news outlets. The News Minute confirmed that at least 96 individuals were hospitalized due to the incident.
The event, which attracted a record-breaking crowd of over 13 lakh spectators, saw people arriving via train, subway, metro, cars, and buses. According to the Limca Book of Records, this marked the largest audience ever recorded at an air show.
Unfortunately, after the event, chaos ensued as traffic officials struggled to manage the overwhelming crowd attempting to leave the venue. The air show was organized by the Indian Air Force to commemorate its 92nd anniversary.
The show began at 11 a.m. and featured the IAF’s Special Garud Force commandos, who demonstrated their skills in a simulated rescue operation, including freeing hostages.
The 92nd IAF Day celebrations, held along the Marina stretch between the Lighthouse and Chennai Port, were attended by several dignitaries, including Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Chennai Mayor R. Priya, and other state officials.
While the clear skies provided an excellent view of the breathtaking aerial performances, attendees gathered on the beach used their umbrellas to create a visual display captured from the air towards the end of the show at 1 p.m.
Traffic in the Marina Beach area was finally restored approximately three hours after the air show concluded, according to police officials.
