25 injured after pandal collapse sparks stampede-like rush at Kolkata’s Chorbagan

New Delhi: Festive celebrations in north Kolkata took an unfortunate turn on Saptami evening when a section of the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal gave way under intense crowd pressure. The sudden structural collapse triggered panic among the visitors, leading to a stampede-like situation inside the premises.

Thousands of devotees had gathered at the venue on Saturday to catch a glimpse of the idol when the incident took place. Eyewitnesses reported that the surge of visitors within a confined space put severe stress on the temporary structure, causing a portion of it to buckle suddenly. Several people fell and sustained injuries in the ensuing rush.

Following the collapse, puja organisers stepped in quickly to bring order to the chaos and help evacuate stranded visitors from the spot. The injured were transported to Calcutta Medical College Hospital, where they were admitted for immediate medical care.

“Deeply shocked and saddened to learn about the stampede at the Chore Bagan Puja Pandal. I pray to Maa Durga for the speedy recovery of all those injured and for strength and courage for their families during this difficult time,” Mamata Banerjee wrote on X.

More to follow..