False ceiling crashes down inside Chennai airport

A major accident at the Chennai international airport was averted, when a false ceiling sheet crashed down behind the check-in counters. Four loaders sustained minor injuries, when the false ceiling sheet and the steel frame that fastened it fell. The incident occurred in the international departure area near the immigration counter and behind the check-in area. No serious damage was caused simply because there were very few people around - afternoon is a slim period for international air traffic. The incident occurred around 12.45 pm, and the ceiling section came crashing down where the loaders were sitting. They were provided treatment at the hospital inside the terminal for their small injuries.  When contacted about the incident, H S Suresh, Airport Director, said, “Some portion of false ceiling fell. Nothing happened. It looks like the holding fasteners came off. We will investigate and send a report soon.” Sources in the airport said that the ceiling had been installed almost 10 years ago and has not been refurbished since.