Kochi: A tragic event took place at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), where a stampede occurred, leading to the unfortunate death of four individuals. . The incident, which unfolded during an event at the university auditorium, is being characterised as a freak accident, according to Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) M.R. Ajith Kumar.
Mr. Ajith Kumar suggested that the unfortunate incident may have been triggered when people attempted to enter the auditorium when the sudden rain showered. In the ensuing chaos, individuals fell on the steps, and others unintentionally stepped on them, leading to the tragic loss of four lives. The incident is being labelled a freak accident by the authorities.
ADGP Mr. Ajith Kumar, who visited the site, shared his initial observations with the media, revealing that the auditorium’s capacity ranged from 1,000 to 1,500 individuals, and at the time of the tragedy, it was only partially filled. “It seems the organisers were admitting people in batches after verifying passes, even though they remain to be verified.
Attendees were instructed to wear pre-issued black t-shirts, with volunteers only allowing the students who don the black t-shirts. The District Police Chief (Kochi City), A. Akbar, highlighted that the police were not informed about the event.
Mr. Ajith Kumar mentioned that there were six policemen from the Thrikkakara Assistant Commissioner of Police’s team and a control room vehicle at the site. According to the preliminary assessment, the unexpected rain played a significant role in the tragic incident. He emphasized that had the auditorium door been open, the incident might have been averted, but it was closed for restricted entry.
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