Seventy-Foot Lionel Messi Statue in Kolkata Faces Safety Scrutiny After Swaying in Strong Winds

According to local reports, the installation began to show visible movement during periods of strong winds, prompting concern among residents and visitors who observed the structure swaying noticeably. The statue, which had initially been celebrated with extensive public enthusiasm and elaborate arrangements at the time of its inauguration, quickly became a popular attraction in the area.

In response to these safety concerns, authorities or organizers have taken precautionary measures by securing the statue with ropes to prevent any potential collapse or untoward incident. The reinforcement was implemented after repeated observations of instability in windy conditions raised alarms about its structural integrity.

No damage or accident has been reported so far. However, the incident has sparked widespread discussion among locals, with questions being raised about the engineering standards and safety protocols followed in the construction of such a large public installation in an open environment.

The statue, once a symbol of admiration for the football legend and a landmark for visitors, is now at the center of safety concerns. The situation has also highlighted the need for regular structural inspections and stronger maintenance protocols for large outdoor monuments exposed to weather conditions.

The development underscores growing public attention toward infrastructure safety standards in public art installations, especially those of significant scale and height, as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.