Messi Statue Removed from Laketown: BMC Cites Crane Safety Risk 2026

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BMC crane removing 44-foot Messi statue from Lake town Kolkata 2026 safety
                                              PHOTO BY SANCHITA CHATTERJEE

BMC workers remove Messi statue from Lake town using crane after structural test on 06/06/2026. Photo: SANCHITA Chatterjee

Why Was 44-Foot Statue Removed by BMC?

BMC engineering team conducted structural stability test on 06/06/2026 after receiving local complaints. Technical report revealed foundation weakness caused by heavy rainfall and poor soil condition in Laketown VIP Road area. The statue was installed last month by a local club without proper deep foundation approval from Kolkata Municipal Corporation.

Senior BMC engineer stated the steel structure weighing over 3 tons was not anchored properly to the ground. During monsoon season, high wind pressure could make it fall anytime on road or nearby shops. Public safety was the top priority, so removal order was issued immediately under Kolkata Municipal Act section 398.

Traffic Impact & Local Reaction

Crane operation started at 10:00 AM and finished at 12:00 PM. Laketown crossing to VIP Road had full traffic diversion for 2 hours. Kolkata Police deployed 4 traffic guards to manage rush hour crowd. Local residents gathered to watch the removal process.

Shopkeepers near the statue said it became a popular selfie spot for football fans, but everyone agreed safety is more important. "Statue was beautiful but dangerous. BMC did the right thing," said local grocery shop owner Mr. Saha.

Cost of Removal & Future Plan

Total removal cost estimated ₹2.5 lakh including crane, labor and traffic management. BMC officials confirmed no compensation will be given as installation was unauthorized on public land.

Future plan: BMC will issue new guidelines for large installations. Any statue above 20 feet must get structural safety certificate before installation. Private clubs must submit engineering approval to KMC office 30 days before installation.

Public Safety Advisory:

• Report unstable structures to BMC helpline: 1800-345-5013

• Avoid standing under large installations during rain and strong wind

• Check official BMC safety notices at kmcgov.in before public events

• Private installations on government land need KMC permission

Update 07/06/2026 2:15 PM: Area now cleared for traffic. BMC will conduct safety audit of all large statues in North Kolkata zones next week.

Source: BMC Engineering Dept, Kolkata Police Traffic Division | Disclaimer: Banner image for representation only. No copyrighted photos used.

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