5 died in Air show due to heat wave, dehydration, it's unfortunate, no politics : Tamil Nadu Health Minister

Chennai: Amid Opposition charge and media reports, the Tamil Nadu Government on Monday admitted that five people, who took part in the IAF Air Show at Marina yesterday, have died and termed it as an unfortunate incident, while there was no politics in it.

Talking to reporters a few minutes back, Health Minister Ma.Subramanian and Greater Chennai City Corporation Mayor Ms.R.Priya said the deaths have occurred due to heat wave and dehydration.

Because of the intense heat wave, 102 people, who came to Marina to witness the Air show, were affected and admitted to the hospital.

Asserting that all basic amenities including enough drinking water facilities were made for the evening, the Minister confirmed that five people have died due to excessive heat wave conditions and dehydration.

There was no stampede. They have died due to searing heat wave conditions and dehydration.

The State government is not hiding the facts and there is no politics involved in it, Mr Subramanian said.

He said the state government would consider providing compensation to the families of the deceased.

He also reiterated that all facilities including ambulances, medical teams by the state government and the Army, and enough beds in the hospital with adequate doctors were kept in state of readiness to face any emergency.

He said two review meetings have been conducted in the presence of the Chief Secretary and there was no laxity on the part of the government in making arrangements for the air show.

The deaths of five people were unfortunate and said the incident should not be politicised.