MAHAKUMBH NAGAR, Jan 19: A significant fire broke out at the Maha Kumbh Mela on Sunday, triggered by a cylinder explosion, affecting 18 tents in Sector 19, according to officials.
There were no reported casualties from the incident, as confirmed by the government in a statement.
Kumbh Mela Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma reported that 15 fire trucks were deployed to control the fire, which had engulfed 18 tents.
“The fire has been extinguished, and the situation is under control,” Sharma stated. Earlier, Bhaskar Mishra, the in-charge of Akhara Police Station, mentioned that two LPG cylinders exploded in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela, leading to the large fire in the camps.
Senior officials are present at the site, and fire teams have successfully managed to put out the fire, as per the government’s announcement.
The official X handle for Maha Kumbh 2025 stated, “Very sad! The fire incident at #MahaKumbh has shocked everyone. The administration is ensuring immediate relief and rescue operations. We pray to Maa Ganga for everyone’s safety.”
They also shared a video showing a dense column of black smoke rising from the affected area.
In a message on X, the Samajwadi Party expressed its sadness regarding the incident and urged the government to expedite relief and rescue efforts.
The 45-day Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced on Paush Purnima on January 13, with over 7.72 crore people reportedly taking the holy dip, based on official data available as of Saturday.
Officials indicated that more than 46.95 lakh devotees took a dip at the Sangam on Sunday. (PTI)
