The tribute to Messi is in danger

Last December, Lionel Messi received a unique tribute in Kolkata, India: a 22-meter-high statue that quickly became a tourist attraction and a viral phenomenon on social media. The monument, erected in honor of the captain of the Argentine national team and Inter Miami star, attracted crowds and was a source of pride for local fans. However, just a few months later, the work faces an uncertain future

Preventive measures and removal of the statue

West Bengal authorities warned that the structure poses a risk to public safety. Engineers who inspected the statue detected visible movements caused by the strong winds that are sweeping through the area. The concern is heightened because the monument is located next to a busy road, which increases the danger in the event of a possible collapse.

As a preventive measure, the government decided to secure the statue with ropes while its fate is being decided. Legislator Sharadwat Mukherjee acknowledged the complexity of removing it, but assured that "we plan to do it as soon as possible." The options under consideration include complete dismantling, a decision that could be made in the coming days

Impact on international networks and media

The news soon generated international repercussions. Fans of FC Barcelona, Inter Miami, and the Argentine national team expressed their surprise and concern on social media, recalling that the tribute had been celebrated as a symbol of global admiration for Messi. Now, the debate revolves around the safety and feasibility of keeping a work standing that, despite its symbolic value, has become a tangible risk.

The tribute that began as a monumental gesture to the Argentine star has become a dilemma for local authorities. The statue of Messi, which was a cause for celebration in December, is now wavering and faces the possibility of disappearing from the landscape of Kolkata.

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