While I was a VERY active participant in the Bengal Balls in the late 70s and early 80s, my perspective today is that Bengal Ball was probably one of the highest potential disasters that was actually sponsored by a University entity.
It is a huge miracle that there were not many known deaths, injuries, or alcohol poisonings from that event. Especially since they did not provide any transportation from Y-beach so most drunkards had to drive at least a short distance back to the campus or their apartments. However, I bet there were a lot of unreported problems that we never knew about.
Now, don't get me wrong, it was a great day, with pretty good bands and entertainment (like the Ski Club's show) and lot of great scenery . But the ratio of free beer compared to the attendance was way overboard (I remember it being 400 kegs to 2000 attendees = 3 gal/person). If Bengal Ball was revived today, there would have to be some way to limit the number of drinks served to an individual. If they could do that, it would be a great event to resurrect.
Yes, I'm now a Curmudgeon, but maturity and experience does definitely change your perspective on life.