Live Earth India, a benefit concert for solar energy projects scheduled for December 7, has been cancelled due to the terrorist killings in Mumbai, India.
The scheduled concert featured an eclectic mix of artists including rapper will.I.am, Roger Waters of Pink Floyd, Bon Jovi, Anoushka, and Indian emcee Hard Kaur.
On November 26, an undetermined group of Islamic militants initiated 10 attacks across the city of Mumbai, including taking hostages at tourist destinations such as the Taj Mahal Palace.
At press time, the still rising death toll is listed at 183 confirmed victims, and at least 300 injured.
Live Earth organizers, which include Vice President Al Gore, co-founder Kevin Wall, and UN Climate Change head Rajednra Pachauri, released a joint statement expressing their shock and dismay over the attack.
“Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are saddened to announce that Live Earth India has been called off,” the statement read. “We were all in the course of finalizing plans for Live Earth India, scheduled for December 7, when we were struck with the news. Together, we will continue to work for solutions to the climate crisis for the good of the people of India and around the world. But for now, our thoughts and our prayers are with the victims of this terrible attack, with the bereaved, [and]with the people of Mumbai and everyone across India.”
So far, 11 gunmen were killed before Indian forces finally retook the city on Friday night (November 28).
According to the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, early investigative reports indicate the militants had coordinated this attack for months, and planned to kill upwards of 5,000 people.
At press time only one group, calling itself the Deccan Mujahideen, has claimed responsibility for the attack.
