Bee Swarm Attack Kills Cricket Umpire During Match in Kanpur

A tragic incident occurred during a cricket match in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur when a sudden swarm of bees attacked players, officials, and spectators at the ground. The attack resulted in the death of 65-year-old umpire Manik Gupta and left several others injured.

The incident took place while Gupta was officiating an under-13 cricket match. Witnesses reported that the swarm descended unexpectedly, triggering panic as players and spectators rushed to find safety.

Panic at Ground as People Rush for Cover

As the bees attacked, chaos spread across the stadium. Individuals ran for shelter while some lay flat on the ground to avoid stings. Despite efforts to escape, Gupta sustained multiple stings and serious injuries.

He was initially taken to a nearby hospital and later shifted to an advanced medical facility due to his critical condition. Doctors later declared him dead.

Another umpire, Jagdish Sharma, was also injured but is reported to be out of danger. Several others who sustained injuries during the incident were hospitalised and treated.

Veteran Official with Long Association

Gupta had been associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association for nearly three decades and was known for officiating numerous regional matches. His sudden death has shocked the local cricket community and officials.

Colleagues and players remembered him as a dedicated official who contributed significantly to grassroots cricket in the region.

Similar Incidents Raise Safety Concerns

Bee swarm attacks, though rare, have previously disrupted sporting events in India. In 2019, a one-day match between India A cricket team and England Lions in Thiruvananthapuram was halted after bees invaded the stadium. While several people were stung, no fatalities were reported in that incident.

The Kanpur tragedy has raised concerns about emergency preparedness and environmental safety measures at sports venues, particularly during outdoor events.

Calls for Preventive Measures

Experts note that bee swarms can become aggressive if disturbed by loud noise, vibrations, or environmental factors. Authorities and sports organisers are expected to review safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency response planning and environmental risk management at public sporting events.

Gupta’s death has left the local cricket fraternity in mourning, with tributes pouring in for the veteran umpire whose decades of service supported the growth of the sport at the grassroots level.