Police Take Action After Flea Festival Crowd Surge Sparks Chaos
In a shocking incident, Mumbai police have booked the organisers of the popular Urban Bazaar Flea Fest after a mass crowd surge led to injuries, property damage, and public fury. The weekend event in Bandra collapsed into pandemonium as safety measures failed, reigniting debates about event management negligence in India.
What Triggered the Stampede?
The Urban Bazaar Flea Fest, known for its indie vendors and live performances, drew thousands to an open ground near Bandra Kurla Complex. However, by afternoon, the venue was overwhelmed:
- Gates jammed as security checks broke down
- Stampede-like chaos erupted, with videos showing stalls overturned
- 14+ injured, including 2 hospitalized with fractures
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic: “People were screaming, kids got separated—no one controlled the crowd.”
Police Response: FIR Filed Against Organisers
Mumbai Police shut down the event and registered an FIR under:
- IPC Section 336 (endangering life)
- IPC Section 34 (common intention)
Senior Inspector Rajesh More stated: “Their negligence risked lives. No crowd control, no emergency planning.”
Organisers’ Apology Faces Backlash
Urban Bazaar Pvt. Ltd. issued a regretful statement:
“We apologize sincerely. Footfall exceeded estimates. We’ll review protocols.”
Critics called it “empty PR”, noting past overcrowding failures at Mumbai events.
Public Outrage: “Profit Over Safety”
Social media erupted with anger:
– “No barriers, no exits—just greed.” – Attendee
– “How many near-disasters before authorities act?” – Activist Priya Menon
Experts demand:
✔ Mandatory crowd management plans
✔ Real-time headcount tracking
✔ Stricter penalties for violations
A Recurring Nightmare for India
This follows deadly precedents:
– 2017 Elphinstone stampede (23 dead)
– 2023 Hathras crush (121 dead)
Urban planner Rohan Desai warned: “India’s event safety laws need teeth—before more lives are lost.”
Next Steps: Investigations & Reforms
- Police probe could lead to fines or bans for organisers
- Civic groups push for transparent inquiries
- Calls grow for BMC and police to enforce stricter codes
“Fun shouldn’t mean fear,” said one injured attendee.
🔴 Follow NextMinuteNews for updates.
