A stampede at a Durga Puja celebration in Kolkata, India, killed 17 people and injured 25, according to local authorities. The incident occurred as heavy rain and large crowds led to chaos at the event.
The disaster took place at a religious gathering in the city of Kolkata, in the state of West Bengal. Officials confirmed that the stampede was triggered by sudden rainfall, which caused panic among attendees. The West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendhu Adhikari, stated that the fatalities included a seven-year-old girl.
Emergency services worked to recover victims from the scene. Police reported that six bodies had been identified so far. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. The event, which is a major Hindu festival, was in full swing when the incident occurred.
Durga Puja is a widely celebrated festival in India, particularly in the eastern states. It involves the worship of the goddess Durga and is marked by public processions and cultural events. The festival typically draws large crowds, making safety a key concern.
This incident highlights the risks associated with large gatherings during extreme weather conditions. Authorities are reviewing safety measures for future events. The exact number of casualties may still be under investigation.
