New Delhi: A heartbreaking accident occurred in Chennai’s Avadi on Friday evening, as a seven-year-old boy lost his life when a football goalpost collapsed on him. The incident took place at the Air Force staff quarters, where the child lived with his parents.
The boy, identified as Advik, was Rajesh’s son and a staff member at the air force station. A Class 1 student at a local school, Advik had gone to play at the football ground near his home when tragedy struck.
Goalpost falls, child unable to escape
According to eyewitnesses, Advik was standing near a movable iron goalpost while others played. The goalpost, which was supported by a boulder, suddenly lost balance and started to fall. Advik noticed it collapsing and tried to run, but the heavy bar of the goalpost struck him.
Onlookers rushed to help and took him to a nearby hospital. However, doctors declared him dead upon arrival. The news has left the community in shock, with residents questioning the safety of such goalposts.
The Muthapudupet police have registered a case and are investigating the matter. Authorities are expected to examine whether negligence played a role in the incident. Meanwhile, concerns over the safety of children at playgrounds have once again come to the forefront.
Previous incidents highlight safety concerns
Inquest into the death of India Verity who was killed by a falling soccer goal post in Moss Vale in 2003 on 23 August 2004. (Photo by Fairfax Media via Getty Images/Fairfax Media via Getty Images via Getty Images)
This tragic event is not isolated. Similar accidents have occurred in the past, underscoring the need for stringent safety measures. In February 2020, a 13-year-old boy named Nikhil Kumar died in Rohtak, Haryana, after a football goalpost pole fell on him during a school recess. The pole struck his head, leading to his immediate death.
In another incident in March 2012, 23-year-old footballer D. Venkatesh collapsed and died during a match in Bangalore. Although not caused by a goalpost, this incident also raised concerns about on-field safety and the availability of medical facilities during games.
These incidents highlight the critical importance of ensuring that all sports equipment, especially heavy structures like goalposts, are securely anchored and regularly inspected. Movable goalposts should be properly stabilized to prevent tipping, and regular maintenance checks must be conducted to identify potential hazards.
