stampede: an accident caused by panic in which people in a crowd are trampled
rumour: an idea that spreads quickly even though it is not based on fact
sway: to move back and forth
suspension bridge: a flexible bridge that is held up by cables and pillars at each end; requires no support from beneath
suffocate: to be unable to breathe due to a blockage of air
trample: to crush using heavy feet or objects
Cambodia Festival Turns Deadly
Cambodia's annual Water Festival turned this year when 347 people died in a bridge stampede. Thousands of people were trapped on the Diamond Island Bridge for hours on the last of the festival. Rumours that the swaying suspension bridge was going to collapse seem to have caused panic and resulted in the stampede. Those who were close enough to the edge into the river below to save their lives. Many drowned while others suffocated or were trampled to death. The Water Festival, which celebrates the and the harvest, features boat races, light shows, cruises and concerts. It is attended by close to people.
Comprehension Questions:
What seems to have caused the stampede?
What events take place at the annual water festival?
What causes of death were mentioned?
Discussion Question: The water festival draws many tourists to Cambodia's capital every year. Should a tragedy such as this cause the government to call off this annual festival?
Cambodia Festival Turns Deadly Cambodia's annual Water Festival turned deadly this year when 347 people died in a bridge stampede. Thousands of people were trapped on the Diamond Island Bridge for hours on the last evening of the festival. Rumours that the swaying suspension bridge was going to collapse seem to have caused panic and resulted in the stampede. Those who were close enough to the edge jumped into the river below to save their lives. Many drowned while others suffocated or were trampled to death. The Water Festival, which celebrates the full moon and the harvest, features boat races, light shows, cruises and concerts. It is attended by close to 4 million people.
Comprehension Answers:
A rumour that the bridge was going to collapse seems to have caused the panic that resulted in the stampede.
Boat races, fireworks, light shows, and concerts take place at the annual water festival.
Causes of death mentioned include drawing, suffocating, and being trampled to death.
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