At least four students died while several others were injured in a stampede at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) during a music in Kerala's Kochi, Health Minister Veena George informed on Saturday.
The accident took place during a music concert by Nikhita Gandhi that was held in the open-air auditorium on the campus. The dead, include two male and two female students of the university. Meanwhile, over 60 students have been injured in the accident, reported news agency PTI.
According to the Health Minister, several students are undergoing treatment at Kalamassery Medical College while information was received that some others are undergoing treatment at private hospitals.
The concert which was scheduled for 6 pm, was delayed by half an hour leading to the open auditorium was completely filled. According to sources, heavy rain caused the crowd to run towards shelter leading to a stampede.
Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M R Ajith Kumar confirmed the death of four students. He said, "It is suspected that there was a college arts function being held by the school of engineering. The invitees were asked to come in black t-shirts."
He further said, "Due to sudden rain people who were at the sites tried to get inside. So suddenly people who were on the steps fell down & people walked over them. Four people were brought dead to the hospital, and another four were seriously injured... Other than that, around a total of 46 people have reported injuries in medical college..."
Vice Chancellor, Dr Sankaran said, "As part of tech fest, a musical program was also organised. Unfortunately, the crowd was huge and there was rain. The steps created some problems and some students fell down. The number of people injured I can only tell tomorrow. More than 2,000 people attended. 2 students are critical."
Municipal Councilor Pramod said, "Exit and entrance through the same gate led to the stampede. Students were trying to enter through the same gate. Students who were entering through the steep steps fell down first and the huge crowd at the gate stomped them again and again."
Recalling the incident, an eyewitness Jalsan said, "This happened around 6:50 pm. When I arrived here three to four students were taken to hospital...It was drizzling. Students rushed in and due to steep steps and pushing this happened."
(With inputs from agencies)
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