West Bengal News | Lionel Messi's 70-Foot Statue Removed In Kolkata's Lake Town Over Safety Concerns
A 70-foot statue of football legend Lionel Messi, installed along VIP Road in the Lake Town area of Kolkata, has been removed after residents raised concerns about its stability. Locals reported that the structure appeared to sway during strong winds, prompting authorities to conduct an inspection. The statue, built in December last year ahead of Messi's 'GOAT Tour' to India, depicted the Argentine superstar holding the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy. It was constructed by fans as a tribute to the football icon. During the tour, Messi visited four Indian cities, West Bengal, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, along with his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. Following complaints from local residents, the Public Works Department (PWD) inspected the structure and reportedly found concerns regarding its structural integrity. Authorities decided to remove the statue to prevent any potential mishap and ensure public safety.
