A tragic stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata has resulted in 17 fatalities, including 13 women and one child.
The incident, caused by heavy rain and a dense crowd, occurred near the exit gate on Saturday evening.
The stampede took place around 7:40 PM in the Sarada Park area under Girish Park police jurisdiction.
Kolkata Police reported that around 35 individuals required treatment at Medical College Hospital following the chaos.
Emergency teams, including police, firefighters, and medical staff, quickly responded to assist the injured.
The pandal was subsequently closed to the public to ensure safety and facilitate emergency operations.
Stampede Took Place at Pandal Exit
According to Kolkata Police, the stampede was triggered when a large crowd gathered near the exit gate during the rain.
Witnesses recounted struggles to navigate through the packed area, with some individuals fainting and being transported to the hospital on motorcycles.
Concerns were raised about the narrow entrance and exit points, as well as inadequate lighting, prompting questions about crowd management and safety protocols at the venue.
The police are still investigating the exact cause of the incident.
Emergency Teams Transport Injured to Hospital
Rescue teams transported the injured to Medical College Hospital, where medical professionals provided care.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal visited the hospital to assess the situation and support the injured.
Kolkata Police dispatched teams from their control room, along with ambulances and medical personnel, to the scene. The pandal remained closed to prevent further risks due to crowding.
Amit Shah Postpones Events, Mamata Banerjee Expresses Condolences
India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and discussed the incident with Chief Minister Adhikari.
Shah has postponed his political events in West Bengal for Sunday to visit the injured in the hospital.
Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock over the tragedy and wished for a speedy recovery for those injured.
Political leaders are responding as families seek information about their loved ones and authorities manage the aftermath of the stampede.
Crowd Safety Under Review
The deaths have raised serious concerns about crowd management during major religious events, where large gatherings can occur in limited spaces.
Durga Puja attracts significant crowds to themed pandals across Kolkata, and narrow access points can create dangers, especially in adverse weather conditions.
The Chorbagan pandal, known for its themed presentation, drew many visitors during the festival.
Reports of narrow entry ways and poor lighting will likely lead to scrutiny regarding safety measures, although responsibility for the incident has not yet been determined.
Investigation and Emergency Response Ongoing
Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crowd crush.
The confirmed death toll stands at 17, including 13 women and one child, with about 35 individuals hospitalized. Updates may follow as officials provide more information.
This tragedy casts a shadow over the Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata.
Immediate priorities include medical care for the injured, support for affected families, and a thorough investigation into the stampede’s causes.
Authorities urge the public to adhere to official guidance as emergency services continue their efforts.