At least four students were killed and more than 60 people were injured in a stampede during a music programme held as part of a tech fest at Kerala’s Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) on Saturday evening.
At least four of the injured students are in critical condition, local media reported.
The music programme by Nikita Gandhi was ongoing at a hall in the university and around 1,000 students were attending the event. However, more than 2,000 students were outside the auditorium as entry was allowed only for the students technical courses. Those who were standing outside the gate rushed into the music hall when showers started unexpectedly, reports said.
The Kerala Chief Minister made a statement on the stampede on X, he said: “The entire state is in shock over the stampede that unfolded at CUSAT University in Ernakulam. Heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of the four students who lost their lives. Immediate and enhanced treatment facilities have been arranged for the injured. P. Rajeev, the Minister for Industries, and R. Bindu, the Minister of Higher Education, have departed for Ernakulam to assess the situation directly. A thorough investigation into the incident will commence without delay.”
Hours after the stampede, the vice-chancellor of CUSAT said that the whole situation was created due to sudden rainfall.
According to PG Sankaran the crowd was huge at the music programme. “Unfortunately, the crowd was huge and there was rain. The steps created some problems and some students fell down. More than 2,000 people attended. Two students are critical.”
Municipal councillor Pramod told ANI that the same exit and entrance of the university gate led to the whole stampede situation.
“Exit and entrance through the same gate led to the stampede. Students who were entering through the steep steps fell down first and the huge crowd at the gate stomped them again and again,” Pramod said.
Health Minister Veena George said the stampede claimed the lives of four students and injured as many as 20.
Health Minister George further said that arrangements have been made at Kalamassery Medical College for the injured students.