Several injured as Kolkata's Chorbagan Pandal collapses triggering stampede

Several people were injured after a section of the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata collapsed amid crowd pressure on Saptami evening, reportedly triggering a stampede-like situation.The incident occurred as devotees gathered at the pandal to celebrate Durga Puja.According to reports, a section of the pandal gave way amid the pressure of the crowd, leaving several people injured. The affected people were evacuated from the spot and taken to Calcutta Medical College Hospital for treatment.Puja organisers reportedly acted swiftly to manage the situation and assist those affected. Police personnel and disaster management officials also reached the site after receiving information about the incident. The West Bengal government has launched a toll-free helpline, 18003455678, following the incident.Further details about the number of injured people and the circumstances that led to the collapse are awaited.SUVENDU ADHIKARI VISITS HOSPITAL Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal reached Calcutta Medical College following reports of the stampede-like situation at the pandal.Several people were feared injured, with those affected being taken to the hospital for medical attention.The authorities are yet to provide further details about the incident, including the exact number of people injured and the circumstances surrounding the collapse.MAMATA BANERJEE EXPRESSES CONCERNFormer West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and sadness over the incident at the Chor Bagan Puja pandal.In a message, Banerjee said she was deeply saddened to learn about the stampede. She prayed to Maa Durga for the speedy recovery of those injured and wished their families strength and courage during the difficult time.The incident occurred during the Durga Puja festivities, when large numbers of devotees visit pandals across Kolkata. Further information about the incident and the condition of those injured is awaited.- Ends