Bee Swarm Tragedy Disrupts U-13 Cricket Match in Unnao

Veteran Umpire Dies After Bee Attack at Uttar Pradesh Cricket Ground

A routine under-13 cricket league match in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao district turned fatal after a sudden swarm of bees attacked players and officials. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning at Rahul Sapru Ground in the Gangaghat Kotwali area, where teams from Kanpur and Lucknow had assembled for a scheduled fixture.

Swarm Causes Chaos on Field

Eyewitness accounts indicate that a sizeable beehive was present on a banyan tree near the boundary wall. Bees had reportedly been active since early morning. Initial stings were observed around 7 a.m., followed by another episode at approximately 8 a.m.

The situation intensified around 8:30 a.m. when a large swarm descended on the ground. Panic spread rapidly as players, umpires, and ground staff attempted to evade the attack. The disturbance lasted nearly 15 minutes, during which an estimated 40–50 individuals were stung. At least 10 people required hospitalisation.

Umpire Manik Gupta Succumbs

Manik Gupta, aged 65, a Kanpur resident and an experienced umpire associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association for nearly 30 years, was among those affected. Witnesses reported that Gupta attempted to escape but fell amid the confusion.

He was repeatedly stung, with reports suggesting dozens of bee stings. Gupta, known to have a cardiac condition, lost consciousness as his health deteriorated quickly. He was transported to medical facilities but was declared dead upon arrival at Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital (Hallet Hospital), Kanpur.

Investigation Underway

The precise trigger for the swarm’s aggression remains undetermined. Authorities are examining whether the hive was disturbed accidentally during play. The incident has renewed focus on environmental safety at public sports venues.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• Unnao district lies between Kanpur and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

• Bee stings can cause anaphylactic shock, particularly in vulnerable individuals.

• Lala Lajpat Rai (Hallet) Hospital is a key government hospital in Kanpur.

• Under-13 leagues contribute to grassroots sports development.

• Incident highlights environmental hazard management at public grounds.