Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede: SIT Focuses on Narrow Exit and Poor Lighting at Chor Bagan Pandal

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Kolkata Durga Puja stampede is examining a narrow exit passage and inadequate lighting at the Chor Bagan pandal to determine whether safety lapses contributed to the tragedy that claimed 19 lives. The six-member team inspected the site on October 22 as part of its efforts to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the incident. Investigators are examining the pandal's layout, the movement of visitors and the arrangements made to manage the large crowds during the Durga Puja celebrations.

According to reports, the stampede occurred near the pandal's exit, where restricted space and dim lighting may have complicated the movement of visitors. The SIT is investigating whether the available passageways and emergency arrangements were adequate to handle the number of people gathered at the venue.

A forensic team has also visited the location to prepare a three-dimensional map of the area. Drone footage and CCTV recordings are being examined to help investigators understand how the crowd moved before the stampede and identify possible congestion points. The inquiry is also expected to examine eyewitness accounts and the roles of the organisers and authorities responsible for crowd management and public safety. Investigators are looking into whether the necessary permissions and safety measures were in place before the event.

Heavy rain reportedly prompted visitors to seek shelter at the pandal, contributing to increased crowd pressure. The SIT is examining whether sudden crowd movement and reports of an announcement concerning the structure's safety contributed to panic before the incident. The investigation has also resulted in arrests. Reports published on October 23 said an eighth accused had been arrested in connection with the case. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and the possible responsibility of those involved.

The tragedy has raised concerns about crowd management at major public festivals in Kolkata, where narrow streets and high visitor numbers can create serious safety challenges. The investigation is expected to establish whether shortcomings in the venue's design, lighting, emergency exits or crowd-control arrangements played a role in the loss of life. The SIT's findings could have implications for safety planning at future Durga Puja celebrations, particularly at crowded pandals in densely populated parts of the city.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.