Thousands of attendees at the Marina Beach event on Sunday, 6 October 2024, faced severe water shortages, with some resorting to drinking water from fire engines as the scorching heat and lack of water provisions took a toll. The event, which had close to 11 lakh people in attendance, saw many scrambling for water with no vendors or adequate water points, leading to desperate scenes throughout the day.
A spectator from Madipakkam recounted a distressing incident involving elderly individuals desperately seeking water. He shared his limited supply but found the sight of numerous thirsty people deeply upsetting. There were reports of people losing consciousness due to lack of hydration, and family units were disrupted as members ventured away from their groups in search of water sources, sometimes wandering considerable distances. Others settled for drinking water from fire engines.
While VIPs were provided with shelters, the general public was herded into makeshift cubicles on the sandy beach. They endured four hours of intense sun with dwindling supplies. Parents, who had excitedly brought their children to the event, watched as the heat and lack of water turned enthusiasm into exhaustion.
Another spectator expressed concerns about the event’s organization. They noted a discrepancy between the city police’s recommendation to use public transportation and Southern Railway’s apparent lack of special train services to accommodate the expected large crowds. They also pointed out the confusion surrounding which department was accountable for managing water supplies, highlighting a potential lack of coordination between different agencies involved in the event planning.
The situation worsened at Triplicane MRTS station, where crowds waited hours to catch trains back to southern Chennai, further compounding the day’s difficulties. Despite the visible chaos, the police prioritised clearing the way for VIP vehicles.
Many visitors left with questions for the authorities, particularly regarding providing basic amenities. The stark difference in the treatment of VIPs and the general public did not go unnoticed, as ordinary attendees were left to fend for themselves, raising concerns about future event management in the city.
It is noteworthy that 5 people died and over 200 hospitalised at the end of the event.
(With inputs from DT Next)
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