Whistle Signal Triggered Fatal Stampede at Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal

A devastating stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata's Chor Bagan locality has left at least 17 people dead, with dozens more injured. The incident has sparked an investigation into crowd management practices at the popular festival venue.

West Bengal Minister Umesh Ray disclosed details surrounding the tragedy, stating that a whistle or public announcement was deliberately used to attract worshippers toward the pandal entrance. The deliberate signaling reportedly triggered a sudden rush of devotees into an already congested space, leading to the crush that resulted in the mass casualties.

The stampede occurred as thousands of devotees gathered at the pandal during the Durga Puja festivities, one of the most significant celebrations in Bengal. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the incident, though rescue operations faced challenges due to the volume of people and the pandal's structural constraints.

Authorities have launched an inquiry into the circumstances that preceded the stampede, with particular focus on crowd management protocols and safety measures at the venue. Officials are examining whether adequate barriers, trained personnel, and crowd control measures were in place during the festival celebrations.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety during major religious gatherings across India, where large crowds and inadequate infrastructure have frequently contributed to similar tragedies in recent years.