At least 18 people died in a stampede during the Durga Puja celebrations at Chorbagan in Kolkata, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred on the evening of October 16, causing panic among the crowd gathered for the festival. The West Bengal government announced ex gratia payments for the victims, while the Prime Minister expressed condolences.
The stampede took place as large crowds gathered to witness the Durga Puja festivities, one of the city's biggest cultural events. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals, including the Suvendu Adhikari Medical College. Local officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the crush and are coordinating relief efforts.
Durga Puja is a major festival in Kolkata, attracting millions of visitors annually. This tragic event highlights the challenges of managing large crowds during such celebrations. Previous years have seen similar incidents, prompting authorities to review safety protocols. The government’s response includes financial aid and increased security measures to prevent future occurrences.
The West Bengal government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured. The President of India also expressed condolences, underscoring the gravity of the tragedy. The investigation into the stampede is ongoing, with officials committed to ensuring accountability and safety in upcoming events.