Kolkata Pandal Stampede: How Rain And Crowd Chaos Led To A Deadly Crush

A night of Durga Puja celebrations turned tragic at Kolkata’s Chor Bagan pandal after heavy rain triggered a rush for shelter, leading to a deadly crowd crush near the exit, according to accounts in the report. Witnesses and local residents have raised concerns over crowd management, exit routes and safety arrangements. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a fact-finding committee and a Special Task Force to investigate the incident, promising action against those found responsible. The Trinamool Congress has criticised the state government, alleging maladministration and a failure to prioritise public safety. The tragedy has renewed questions over crowd control and emergency planning at large public gatherings.