Messi's 70-Foot Statue Removed Over Safety Concerns in Kolkata

A 70-foot statue of Lionel Messi in Kolkata was removed after residents cited safety concerns. Installed last December ahead of Messi's 'GOAT Tour,' the statue was found swaying in strong winds. Authorities plan to find a safer location. The tour faced issues, including ticket mismanagement and crowd chaos.

A towering 70-foot statue of football legend Lionel Messi, situated on VIP Road in Kolkata's Lake Town, has been dismantled following concerns from local residents regarding its stability. The statue, which commemorated Messi's visit to India for his 'GOAT Tour' last December, was observed swaying dangerously during high winds.

The FIFA World Cup-winning star's journey across India included stops in West Bengal, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, accompanied by teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. Complaints to the Public Works Department led to an examination that revealed structural issues, prompting authorities to remove the statue to prevent any accidents.

Authorities are now searching for a secure location to reinstall the tribute. Meanwhile, controversies overshadowed Messi's Kolkata visit, with allegations of ticketing misconduct against former West Bengal Sports Minister Arup Biswas and chaotic scenes at Salt Lake Stadium due to dissatisfied fans, poor event management, and exclusivity for VIPs.