Two Killed, Five Injured After 22-Foot Ganesh Idol Collapses at Bhuleshwar

Two volunteers were killed and five others were injured after a 22-foot Ganesh idol collapsed on Bhuleshwar Road on Saturday, just metres away from the pandal where it was scheduled to be installed.

The deceased have been identified as 33-year-old Sanket Nevshe, secretary of the Bhuleshwarcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samiti, and 30-year-old Brijesh Joshi. Five other individuals sustained injuries in the incident and were admitted to a hospital for treatment.

According to an eyewitness, several children were seated on the platform of the vehicle transporting the idol, while many others had gathered near its base. When the 22-foot structure suddenly gave way, those positioned at its feet were struck by the falling idol.

Following the sudden collapse, approximately 150 volunteers immediately mobilised to carry out rescue efforts, working frantically to pull out people who were trapped underneath the heavy structure.

Rescuers recounted the traumatic scene as they rushed to free the victims and secure medical assistance for those caught beneath the idol.

On Sunday morning, mourners gathered as the mortal remains of Sanket Nevshe were taken to the Chandanwadi crematorium in Marine Lines for the last rites.