• 4 students dead, over 60 injured in stampede at concert in Kochi university

    National
    4 students dead, over 60 injured in stampede at concert in Kochi university
    The event, which was part of the university's Tech Fest, took place in the outdoor theatre and featured playback singer Nikhita Gandhi.


    Digital Desk: At least 64 people were injured and four students lost their lives in a stampede that happened during a concert on Saturday night at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). Officials stated that two of the injured were in critical condition.

    Upon being taken to a hospital, the four students—two girls and two boys—were pronounced dead.

    The event, which was part of the university's Tech Fest, took place in the outdoor theatre and featured playback singert Nikhita Gandhi.

    Chief Minister Kerala Responds

    In addition to expressing sorrow for the deaths of the four students at Kochi University, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan requested an urgent meeting of ministers.

    Pinarayi Vijayan posted on X that the ministers of higher education and industry were on their route to the university to assess its situation.

    "The entire state is in shock over the tragedy 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," he wrote on X.

    In a similar manner, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan expressed his sorrow and grief after learning of the tragic deaths of four students in a stampede at Cochin University.

    WHAT CAUSED THE STAMPEDE?

    According to preliminary accounts, those who were standing on the side hurried to a location to seek shelter from the deluge as it suddenly started to rain, a senior police officer said. The official said that as a result, those who were standing on the steps collapsed as people passed over them.

    Speaking about the incident, Vice Chancellor Dr. Sankaran informed news agency ANI, "A musical programme was also organised as part of tech fest." Regretfully, it was raining and there was a large throng. A few pupils fell and there were issues with the steps. I won't know how many people were hurt until tomorrow. Two pupils are crucial among the more than 2,000 attendees."

    After receiving prompt attention from emergency personnel, the wounded were sent to Kinder Hospital and Kalamassery Medical College for treatment. The Minister of Health has guaranteed that the victims would receive the necessary treatment.

    A municipal councillor stated that the rush was brought on by the exit and entry passing through the same gate. "Students were attempting to use the same gate to enter." The large group at the gate repeatedly trampled the students who had fallen first from the high steps, the councillor informed ANI.