A giant statue of Argentine football star Lionel Messi has been dismantled in Kolkata, India, after concerns emerged over the poor construction of its base. The statue, which had been erected to honor the iconic player, was taken down on Monday, June 1, 2026, ahead of its planned relocation to a new site in the city.
Safety Issues Prompt Removal
Authorities cited structural weaknesses in the statue's foundation as the primary reason for its removal. Inspections revealed that the base was not built to withstand environmental stresses, raising fears of a potential collapse. The decision to dismantle the statue was made to ensure public safety.
Relocation Plans
The statue is set to be relocated to a more secure location in Kolkata, where it will be reinstalled with a reinforced base. Local officials have assured that the new site will meet all safety standards, allowing fans to continue celebrating the football legend without risk.
The dismantling process was carried out by a team of engineers and construction workers, who carefully removed the statue piece by piece. The operation was completed without incident, and the statue is now in storage awaiting its new home.
This incident highlights the importance of proper construction practices for public monuments, especially those that attract large crowds. The Messi statue, a popular landmark for football enthusiasts, will hopefully be restored to its former glory in a safer setting.
