17 Killed, Over 20 Injured as Durga Puja Pandal Collapses in Kolkata

Kolkata: At least 17 people were reported killed and more than 20 devotees injured after part of a Durga Puja pandal collapsed at the prominent Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja venue in central Kolkata on Saturday evening.

The incident occurred on October 17, the seventh day of Durga Puja, when a large crowd had gathered at the pandal. According to reports, part of the structure gave way at around 7.30 pm amid heavy footfall. Light rain was also reported in several parts of the city at the time.

The collapse triggered panic among devotees, leading to a rush at the venue. Several people were injured in the incident and were shifted to hospitals for treatment, with emergency medical assistance provided to those affected.

Police personnel and disaster management teams rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident and launched rescue operations.

Authorities temporarily closed the pandal area as a precautionary measure following the tragedy.

Further details regarding the cause of the collapse and the circumstances leading to the casualties were awaited.