A 21-meter statue of Lionel Messi in Kolkata, India, was dismantled after less than a year standing. The structure, which showed the footballer lifting the World Cup, had become a popular tourist spot. However, authorities removed it due to the risk of strong winds causing it to collapse. The case leaves a clear lesson: public tributes must prioritize safety over spectacle to avoid accidents in crowded spaces.
Structural design and wind load calculation 🏗️
The potential collapse of a 21-meter statue is not a matter of bad luck, but of poor engineering. Structures of this scale require detailed analysis of wind loads, deep anchors, and fatigue-resistant materials. In areas exposed to gusts, such as Kolkata, the design must include high safety factors. The lack of these calculations turns a tribute into a risk. The technical priority is to ensure the monument withstands adverse weather conditions, not just that it looks good on social media.
The star that couldn't withstand a gust of wind 🌬️
Messi lifted the World Cup in Qatar, but his statue in Kolkata couldn't even handle a little wind. The 21-meter figure, meant to be a symbol of greatness, ended up being an example of how not to do things. Tourists who once took selfies can now reflect on the importance of foundations. At least the statue didn't fall on anyone. That said, the message was clear: better to have a cardboard Messi than a 21-meter one about to fly away.