Several people were injured in a stampede-like situation at the Chorbagan Sarbojonin Durga Puja pandal on Muktarambabu Street in North Kolkata on Saturday. A large crowd had gathered to catch a glimpse of the idols when panic broke out.
At least 15 injured people were admitted to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital. Some were reportedly in critical condition. At the time this report was filed, no deaths had been reported.
The situation became tense after part of the pandal’s exit gate structure collapsed. Authorities feared the number of injured could rise.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the hospital with BJP leaders and directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured.
Kolkata Police, Fire Services personnel and State Disaster Management teams reached the spot to carry out rescue operations. Organisers stopped entry into the pandal and switched off the lights.
Puja organiser Bikash Das said the exact cause of the incident was not yet clear.Rescuing the injured and transporting them to the hospital was the top priority, he continued. Officials were yet to confirm whether anyone had been trampled in the crowd.