Shocking findings have emerged in the investigation into the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal stampede that claimed 19 lives. A forensic report has reportedly identified serious shortcomings in the air-conditioning and ventilation arrangements, raising fresh questions over alleged negligence by the organisers in ensuring the safety of thousands of visitors.

According to sources at Lalbazar, the Kolkata Police headquarters, forensic experts who examined the interior of the puja pandal found that 24 air-conditioning units, with a combined cooling capacity of 134 tons, had been installed.

Despite the substantial cooling capacity, investigators reportedly concluded that the arrangements were inadequate considering the size of the pandal and the massive footfall expected during Saptami and Ashtami.

The findings have raised serious concerns over whether the organisers had properly assessed the cooling and ventilation requirements before allowing large crowds into the enclosed structure.

Excessive crowd rendered cooling system ineffective

The forensic report reportedly revealed that the pandal had become severely overcrowded, with thousands of visitors packed into the enclosed space, leaving little room for movement.
The enormous concentration of people generated excessive body heat and humidity, overwhelming the installed air-conditioning system. Under these conditions, the 134-ton cooling arrangement allegedly failed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

Investigators are examining whether the excessive crowd density and inadequate cooling contributed to the deteriorating conditions inside the pandal before the deadly stampede.

Organisers under scanner over safety lapses

The forensic findings have also brought the role of the puja organisers under scrutiny.

Experts reportedly observed that the organisers had failed to adequately anticipate the scale of crowds during the peak festival days. Instead of ensuring sufficient ventilation and implementing effective crowd-control measures, they allegedly relied heavily on the air-conditioning system.

The apparent failure to assess crowd capacity and provide adequate ventilation has raised questions about compliance with essential safety protocols at the high-budget pandal.

A senior Kolkata Police official said, “The entire incident is being investigated based on the information that has emerged.”

Tragedy sparks demand for stricter safety measures

The Chorbagan tragedy has renewed concerns over crowd management, ventilation and emergency preparedness at large-scale Durga Puja pandals across Kolkata.

Administrative officials and experts have stressed that visitor safety must take precedence over elaborate decorations and expensive arrangements, particularly at pandals attracting thousands of visitors.

The forensic findings are expected to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation into the circumstances that led to the deaths of 19 people.

Meanwhile, the tragedy has intensified demands for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, scientific assessment of crowd capacity and improved emergency arrangements to prevent similar disasters during future festivals.

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