Steel lattice beam collapses during Holi party in Pune; 4 injured

PUNE: Four people suffered injuries after a heavy steel lattice beam collapsed during a Holi party at a private event venue in Mundhwa, off North Main Road, on Tuesday afternoon.

"Over 1,000 people, mostly youngsters, had gathered for the party from various parts of the city. Just a few people were near the steel lattice beam when it collapsed, Some people got trapped under it," senior inspector Smita Vasnik of the Mundhwa police said.


Two of the injured revellers were sent to Sassoon General Hospital in a police van.

"The party was organised on an open plot. The stage for the DJ and dancers was elevated. Lattice beams were installed at different locations near the stage," Vasnik said.

"We suspect that the lattice beam may have collapsed because of the weight of the lights fixed to it or because workers were still pulling it up. Colourful curtains were hanging from the beam," she said.

"We had given sound permission for the event. No alcohol was served at the party," she said.

TOI tried to contact the event organiser on Tuesday evening, but he did not respond to the calls.

"Several people present at the party told us that around 16-17 people were injured. We checked with different hospitals and authorities about the figures. So far, we have confirmation about only four injured people. Some of them have suffered fractures to legs or hands. Our teams have reached the hospitals to record the statement of the injured people admitted there," she said.

"After recording the statements of the injured, we will register a case against the parties concerned, including the event organiser and contractors. We will seek expert assistance to examine the safety measures taken at the venue, including the stability of the temporary structure erected for the party," Vasnik said.

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