Kharghar Tragedy: 11 Attendees Die Of Heatstroke At Maharashtra Bhushan Award Ceremony

During the Maharashtra Bhushan Award ceremony on Sunday in Navi Mumbai, at least 11 people died from heatstroke after standing in the sun for prolonged periods.

Approximately 125 event attendees reported exhaustion, chest pain, and other symptoms.

"A total of 123 people complained of heat-related health ailments, like dehydration during the event. They were immediately referred to the 30 medical booths set up at the venue. Thirteen of the patients, who needed further treatment, were shifted to different private hospitals," a revenue department official, who was on duty at the venue said, reported IndiaTV.

"A total of 30 doctors were deployed at the medical booths that had intensive care unit (ICU) facilities to treat people at the venue," she added.

The situation was assessed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who visited Kamothe Hospital where patients were receiving treatment. Shinde promised Rs 5 lakh relief to the families of the deceased. Former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray is also expected to visit the hospital.

A public function took place at Navi Mumbai's Kharghar, honoring social worker Dattatreya Narayan Dharmadhikari. The event occurred in a spacious ground from 11.30am to 1.30pm and attracted numerous supporters.

However, some attendees fell sick from standing in the sun and were immediately taken to the hospital for medical treatment where at least eight of the followers died.

The deaths are indeed "very unfortunate," expressed Shinde, adding that the state government will cover the expenses of the treatment. The Chief Minister has also instructed officials to transfer patients requiring further medical attention to specialised hospitals.

The closest weather station recorded a high of 38°C at the event location.

"Lakhs of people had come for the event and it went well. It is painful to see some of them suffer. It is a very unfortunate situation which is very painful for me," CM Shinde said.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis tweeted saying: "It is very unfortunate and painful that some members participating in the Maharashtra Bhushan award ceremony this morning died due to heatstroke. I offer my heartfelt tributes to these seekers. We share in the grief of their families."