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Kolkata, October 28 (IANS) A total of 14 people were injured when a 70 feet high Jagaddhatri Puja Mandap collapsed due to strong winds in Chandannagar in West Bengal’s Hooghly district on Tuesday evening.
This year, the Kanailal Palli Jagaddhatri Puja Committee had constructed a huge 70 feet high mandap, in front of which a fiber idol of Goddess Jagaddhatri was installed. However, since evening, strong winds have been lashing parts of South Bengal due to the peripheral impact of Cyclone Montha.
Although the cyclone did not directly attack West Bengal, it caused light rain and strong winds in several districts of South Bengal, including Hooghly on its outskirts.
Due to the high speed winds the huge structure of the pavilion tilted and collapsed. A large number of spectators were inside the pavilion at the time of the incident, which created chaos. About 14 people including six women were injured in the accident.
On receiving the information, police personnel and disaster response team reached the spot. Many injured were rescued and taken to Chandannagar Hospital for treatment.
Chandannagar Police Commissioner Amit P. Jawalgi said, “As soon as the information about the collapse of Kanailal Palli Mandap was received, police and fire brigade teams reached the spot. Some people were trapped inside, but they were rescued and sent to the hospital. Everyone is safe now.”
He said: “The structure of the mandap has been removed and checked to ensure that no one remains trapped below. Local people also helped in time. The puja committee has been directed to properly inspect and repair the structure before reopening it. The puja will continue, but only after security clearance.”
According to police sources, the pavilion will remain closed for the rest of the day on Tuesday. If the repairs are completed and the police issue a fit certificate, it can be reopened for the public by Wednesday.
A police officer said, “The structure needs to be strengthened properly. We cannot afford another such incident. Once the inspection is completed and the pavilion is deemed safe, it will be reopened for visitors.”
–IANS
SH/PGH