POST-TRAGEDY SAFETY SCRUTINY: BENGAL FIRE SERVICES SERVES NOTICES ON THREE KOLKATA DURGA PUJA COMMITTEES

October 19, 2026

KOLKATA, OCTOBER 19: The West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services department has issued notices to three Durga Puja committees in Kolkata, bringing fire-safety compliance at festival venues under renewed scrutiny following the deadly Chorebagan stampede.

The action comes amid heightened attention to public safety at crowded Puja pandals, where temporary structures, electrical installations and large visitor numbers can create significant risks if adequate precautions are not maintained.

The notices signal the department’s efforts to examine compliance with applicable fire-safety requirements at the selected venues. The committees concerned may be required to respond to the issues raised by the authorities and address any identified shortcomings in accordance with the relevant rules.

The wider safety debate has intensified following the Chorebagan tragedy, which exposed the dangers associated with overcrowding and inadequate control of visitor movement. Although fire prevention and crowd management involve distinct safety responsibilities, both are essential to protecting people attending large public celebrations.

The latest action places renewed emphasis on the responsibility of Puja organisers to maintain safe premises and cooperate with inspection authorities. It also underlines the importance of effective monitoring and enforcement to ensure that public festivities do not expose visitors to avoidable danger.

The specific deficiencies cited in the notices and the responses of the three committees will determine the next steps taken by the fire services department.