AIADMK assails Tamil Nadu govt for 'inadequate arrangements' during IAF anniversary celebration; claims five deaths

Palaniswami also claimed that five people lost their lives during the event due to heatstroke.

"On the occasion of the 92nd Inauguration Day of the Indian Air Force, which is one of the most important components of the Indian Defense Department, an air adventure program was staged in Chennai today to celebrate the strength of the Air Force. As the notification for this was published in advance, knowing that lakhs of people would come to visit, the Tamil Nadu government informed that arrangements have been made for transportation and basic facilities.," the AIADMK leader posted on X.

"However, in today's program, administrative arrangements and Crowds and traffic were not managed properly as the police force is also inadequate to regulate. The news is shocking that people are stuck in heavy traffic, even drinking water is not available, and many people have been admitted to hospital due to heatstroke and 5 people have died so far," he added.

Palaniswami also expressed his condolences over the loss of lives in the incident and condemned the MK Stalin-led state government for failing to properly coordinate the event.

"This pains me. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. My strong condemnation of the DMK government for failing to properly coordinate even such an important event...My strong condemnation to this MK Stalin government for failing to provide proper security for this event," he said.

The Indian Air Force on Sunday organised an Air Show at Chennai's Marina Beach ahead of the upcoming 92nd Air Force Day on October 8.

In the air adventure show, fighter aircraft Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Sarang helicopter took part as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy CM Udhyanidhi Stalin, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, and a large number of spectators gathered to witness the spectacular show.

Garud Commandos also displayed their strength and operational preparedness at Marina Beach was held for the first time in 21 years in Chennai.

72 other aircraft took part in the air show. This year's theme, 'Bharatiya Vayusena: Saksham, Sashakt aur Aatmnirbhar' (Indian Air Force: Capable, Strong, and Self-reliant), underscores the IAF's commitment to national security, self-reliance, and modernisation efforts.

A keen crowd of young children and adults were present at the air show. A child visitor who marked his first visit to the show said that although the show was great, the hot weather troubled them.

Speaking to ANI, the young visitor said "I am very happy my parents brought me here to attend the show. It is a very nice feeling to come here. But the weather is very hot, it would have been nice if it was in the early morning."

A parent said that they had brought the kids to experience the memorable show and said "We brought our kids here to experience the show. They are really happy, although it's very hot here."

Another child visitor said that this was his first time at the show and was enjoying it.

He said "I am in sixth class and this is my first time coming here. I am very happy I came here and I am enjoying this," said another child visitor.

"We have seen several air shows, but this is one of the best ones I have seen. This is a different experience and a fantastic show," said another visitor.

Advisories were also issued by the Greater Chennai Traffic Police urging the public to use the Metro and MRTS service and plan their travel accordingly to ensure a smoother experience of the show. (ANI)