DURGA PUJA TRAGEDY IN NORTH KOLKATA: RAIN-TRIGGERED CROWD SURGE AT CHORBAGAN LEAVES 17 REPORTED DEAD

October 17, 2026

A deadly stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata on Saturday evening reportedly claimed 17 lives after a sudden spell of rain triggered a rush among the massive crowd gathered at the venue.

According to reports citing hospital sources, 17 people were declared dead on arrival at Medical College Hospital, while more than 30 others were admitted for treatment. Additional victims were reportedly being brought to the hospital, with some said to be in critical condition.

The sudden downpour is believed to have prompted visitors to move hurriedly, resulting in a dangerous surge of people at the crowded pandal. The exact sequence of events leading to the stampede, however, had not yet been established by the authorities.

The pandal had been attracting large crowds since its opening, and earlier reports had raised concerns about an apparent shortage of volunteers to manage the

heavy footfall. The incident has intensified concerns over crowd management and visitor safety during Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations.

Kolkata Police officials reached the site as the situation unfolded. Authorities were yet to establish the precise cause of the tragedy, while the reported casualties and the condition of the injured remained the immediate focus.