Millions flock to Kolkata's Durga puja pandals, setting record crowds

Kolkata is witnessing an extraordinary surge in attendance for Durga Puja celebrations this year, with millions of visitors flooding the city. Starting from Sunday, the crowds reached their peak on Panchami night, where families, friends, and relatives gathered to explore the elaborate pandals. Notable locations include Mohammad Ali Park, Bhukailash, Tara Sundari Park, Bhawanipur 75 Pally, Suruchi Sangh, Sribhumi Puja Committee, and Ekdalia Puja Club, each showcasing impressive artistic displays and cultural significance.

In response to the overwhelming turnout, police have implemented comprehensive crowd management strategies. Major thoroughfares, such as Rajpath (Red Road), have been cordoned off using wooden barriers, creating designated pathways for visitors. This setup facilitates smoother access to the pandals while keeping vehicular traffic flowing, preventing gridlock in the bustling city.

Public transportation systems are feeling the strain of the record crowds. The Howrah and Sealdah train divisions are experiencing significant overcrowding, with many passengers reporting lengthy wait times and challenges boarding trains. The metro service, a vital lifeline for commuters, is also facing congestion, leading to lines of hundreds at ticket counters as people try to make their way to the festivities.

With over three thousand pandals set up throughout Kolkata, the city is illuminated and alive with celebration. To ensure public safety, both male and female police personnel are deployed at key locations, actively monitoring the crowds. Additionally, volunteer teams from various puja committees are collaborating with law enforcement to manage the throngs of visitors, helping them navigate the pandals while ensuring a secure experience.