Sunday, January 19, 2025 The revered Mahakumbh at Prayagraj turned into a chaotic scene on Sunday as a major fire engulfed the Tent City in Sector 19. This spiritual epicenter, bustling with thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across India and the globe, witnessed pandemonium when an explosion of cooking cylinders triggered the disaster. The fire broke out at approximately 4:30 PM, reportedly originating in the tent associated with the renowned Gita Press.
Flames rapidly spread across 18 adjoining tents, reducing them to ashes in a matter of minutes. Authorities acted promptly, deploying 15 fire tenders to battle the raging inferno. Kumbh Mela chief fire officer Pramod Sharma confirmed that the fire was brought under control within 20 minutes, averting a potential catastrophe.
Despite the destruction, no casualties were reported, a fact being hailed as nothing short of miraculous by many. The event has once again put the spotlight on safety concerns at mass gatherings, especially events as significant as the Mahakumbh, which attracts millions of devotees annually. The Kumbh Mela, a spiritual and cultural spectacle, is also a crucial pillar of India’s tourism industry.
Prayagraj district magistrate Ravindra Kumar assured the public that the situation was swiftly managed. “There is no information about any casualties. The situation is under control,” Kumar stated.
His remarks were echoed by Uttar Pradesh minister AK Sharma, who lauded the rapid action of firefighting .
