4 dead, several injured during stampede-like situation at CUSAT University's tech fest

In a shocking development, at least four students died and around 60 were left injured in a stampede-like situation at CUSAT University in Kerala's Kochi, state's health minister Veena George said.

accident took place during a music concert by Nikhita Gandhi that was held in open-air auditorium on campus. According to officials, two boys and two girls were brought de upon arrival at Kalamassery Medical College.

Sharing details of incident, Municipal Councilor Pramod said, “Exit and entrance through same gate led to stampede. Students were trying to enter through same gate. Students who were entering through steep steps fell down first and huge crowd at gate stomped m again and again.”

ditional Director General of Police (GP) M R Ajith said that stampede occured due to rain. "Due to sudden rain people who were at sites tried to get inside. So suddenly people who were on steps fell down and people walked over m...Four people were brought de to hospital, and anor four were seriously injured... Or than that, around a total of 46 people have reported injuries in medical college," he said.

Under chairmanship of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, an emergency meeting of ministers was held at 8:30 pm on Saturday at guest house over tragedy. As a sign of mourning, celebratory programs and artistic programs related to Navakerala sas were cancelled on Sunday.

" entire state is in shock over stampede that unfolded at CUSAT University in Ernakulam. Heartfelt condolences go out to family members of four students who lost ir lives. Immediate and enhanced treatment facilities have been arranged for injured. P. Rajeev, Minister for Industries, and R. Bindu, Minister of Higher Education, have departed for Ernakulam to assess situation directly. A thorough investigation into incident will commence without delay," Vijayan said.

Industries Minister P Rajeev and Higher Education Minister Dr R. Bindu have been assigned to Kalamassery to review situation. Health Minister Veena George will coordinate matters related to ensuring treatment. CM directed to ensure necessary treatment for injured.