At least 19 people were reported dead and several others injured after a stampede-like incident at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata on Saturday evening, October 17. The incident occurred amid heavy crowds and sudden rainfall, leaving visitors trapped in a crush as people attempted to enter and exit the pandal. The injured were taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
According to media reports, a large number of visitors had gathered at the pandal to see the Durga idol when rain intensified the congestion. Eyewitnesses said people were attempting to leave after darshan while others continued to push forward to enter. The resulting surge reportedly caused several people to fall, with others tumbling over them.
The scene was marked by confusion, with shoes, bags and water bottles scattered around the area. Emergency personnel, including police, fire services and disaster management teams, reached the site and began rescue operations. Entry to the pandal was subsequently stopped as authorities responded to the incident.
Initial reports put the number of injured at between 25 and 35, with many taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital. The casualty figures remained subject to updates as reports emerged during the evening. The reported death toll and number of injured should be treated as provisional until confirmed by the authorities.
A woman who was present at the pandal alleged that crowd management and emergency arrangements were inadequate. She claimed that confusing announcements contributed to the panic and alleged that visitors struggled to find police personnel and ambulance assistance.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Health Minister Saradwat Mukherjee and senior officials visited Calcutta Medical College and Hospital to assess the situation and review arrangements for the injured, according to media reports.
On the other hand, Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the incident. She wrote on X, “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.”
