Stampede at CUSAT's tech fest: four dead, at least 46 injured
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Kochi: Tragedy struck during the Tech Fest at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) as four students died in a stampede on Saturday evening.
Minister Veena George confirmed, "Four persons were brought dead to Kalamassery Medical College."
Reports indicate that at least 46 students sustained injuries during the incident and were swiftly taken to Kalamassery's Medical College. Among the injured, two students remain in critical condition.
District Collector NSK Umesh provided an update, stating, "Two others are seriously injured, and they are being transferred to Aster Hospital. Currently, 46 individuals are admitted to Kalamassery Medical College, with 15 under observation in a stable condition."
The tragic stampede unfolded during a music concert by Nikhita Gandhi at an open-air auditorium on the campus. Allegedly, chaos erupted when students hurried inside the music hall due to an unexpected downpour.
It's reported that students from various colleges attended the event, hindering the immediate identification of the deceased.
Health Minister Veena George noted, "At least 18 others are admitted to a private hospital. One among them has sustained a serious head injury."
The situation spiraled out of control despite restrictions on entry to the concert through gate passes. The downpour led those waiting outside to rush into the auditorium for shelter, resulting in the stampede.
The university was hosting its annual Tech Fest known as 'Dhishna.'