Kolkata removes giant Messi statue over safety concerns months after unveiling it

A towering 70-foot statue of Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi has been removed from Kolkata’s Lake Town area, barely months after it was unveiled, following concerns over its structural stability, as per reports.

Authorities decided to dismantle the landmark after engineers found that the massive structure had become unsafe and was swaying during strong winds.

The statue, which depicts the Argentine legend holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, was inaugurated during Messi’s India tour in December 2025 and quickly became a major attraction for football fans.

However, recent inspections by the Public Works Department (PWD) reportedly revealed structural deficiencies, including issues with balance and stability, prompting officials to act before any accident could occur.

Local residents had raised complaints after noticing movement in the structure during storms and strong winds. Following the inspection, authorities concluded that the statue posed a potential safety risk and ordered its removal.

Workers used ropes and heavy equipment to secure and dismantle the giant installation.

Officials have reportedly indicated that the statue may be relocated to a safer site in the future, though no final decision has been announced.