Massive fire breaks out at Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj; no casualties
A significant fire broke out on January 19, 2025, at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, causing extensive damage to temporary structures. The blaze, originating from the explosion of two cooking gas cylinders, engulfed at least 18 tents in Sector 19 of the sprawling tent city.
The fire erupted around 4:00 PM, rapidly spreading through the area. Emergency response teams, including approximately 15 fire tenders, were promptly dispatched to the scene. The fire was successfully contained, and no casualties or injuries were reported. Prayagraj District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mander confirmed that the situation was under control and that normalcy had been restored.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is the world's largest religious gathering, attracting millions of devotees. This year's event commenced on January 13 and is expected to draw over 400 million visitors over six weeks. Participants gather at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, believing that bathing in these waters cleanses them of sins and liberates them from the cycle of rebirth.
In response to the incident, authorities have intensified safety protocols within the Mela grounds. The temporary city, designed to accommodate the vast number of pilgrims, includes 3,000 kitchens, 150,000 toilets, and 11 hospitals. Additionally, approximately 50,000 security personnel are deployed to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees.
The swift response to the fire incident underscores the preparedness of local authorities in managing emergencies during large-scale events. While the damage to property is significant, the absence of casualties highlights the effectiveness of the safety measures in place.
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