19 killed, 25 injured in Kolkata Durga Puja crowd crush
At least 19 people were killed and 25 others injured in a crowd crush during Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata, India, on Saturday evening.
The tragedy occurred at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal, where heavy rainfall reportedly caused visitors to rush for shelter. A confusing announcement may have triggered panic as crowds surged towards narrow exits.
Footage showed personal belongings scattered outside the venue, while ambulances transported victims to hospital.
Local first responder Rajdeep Varma described desperate attempts to rescue people trapped in the crowd, including women, children and elderly visitors.
Police have arrested seven people, including organisers and security personnel, as investigations continue into possible overcrowding and safety failures.
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The venue has been closed, while authorities have launched inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
