In a tragic incident, at least four students were killed and over 60 others sustained injuries at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) during a music concert on Saturday evening. The performance, a part of the Tech Fest, featured playback singer Nikhita Gandhi and took place at the university's open-air auditorium.

Kerala health minister Veena George said the injured students were being taken to Kalamassery Medical College. Two boys and two girls were brought dead upon arrival at Kalamassery Medical College, officials said.

According to a senior police official, preliminary reports indicate that a sudden rain shower prompted individuals standing on the side to hurry to a sheltered area. Consequently, those on the steps fell as people moved over them, the official stated.

Speaking about the incident, Vice Chancellor, Dr Sankaran told news agency ANI, "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, and 2 students are critical."

In a post on X, Pinarayi Vijayan said that the minister for industries and minister for higher education were on their way to the university to assess the situation.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan posted on X, “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.”

This unfortunate incident has sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond, prompting a swift response from authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

Image source: India Today