Zafar Iqbal
A major fire incident occurred at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Sunday, sparking concerns over safety at the grand religious gathering. The fire, triggered by two LPG cylinder explosions, swiftly spread to engulf 50 tents, including the Gita Press camp.
Mahakumbh Fire 2025 Incident
The fire broke out in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela at approximately 4:30 PM, creating chaos and panic among attendees. Witnesses reported loud explosions followed by towering flames that were visible from a distance. Firefighters and rescue teams, including 15 fire tenders, were immediately deployed to the scene.
Details of the Mahakumbh Fire Incident
Location and Cause
- Location: Sector 19, Gita Press tent
- Cause: Two LPG cylinder explosions
- Extent of Damage: 50 tents completely destroyed
Kumbh Mela Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma confirmed that the fire originated from the Gita Press tent after a cylinder explosion. The flames rapidly spread to nearby tents, causing extensive damage.
Immediate Response
Fire tenders arrived promptly to contain the blaze, while teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) joined the efforts. Officials stated that no casualties were reported, and the situation is now under control.
Eyewitness Accounts
Attendees described a terrifying scene as the fire spread rapidly. “The sound of continuous explosions resembled fireworks, and there was panic everywhere,” said a witness. Many rushed to safety as thick black smoke enveloped the area.
Administrative Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the affected site to assess the damage and oversee relief efforts. He interacted with rescue teams and emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of attendees.
Statements from Officials
Prayagraj DM Ravindra Kumar
“The fire broke out at 4:30 PM in Sector 19. Our teams responded immediately. The fire is now extinguished, and a survey is being conducted to evaluate the damage.”
DIG Mahakumbh Mela Vaibhav Krishan
“The situation is under control. Only tents and materials have been destroyed. There is no information of casualties or injuries.”
Public Reaction
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at the Maha Kumbh Mela. The official X (formerly Twitter) account of Maha Kumbh 2025 expressed grief, stating:
“Very sad! The fire incident at #MahaKumbh has shocked everyone. The administration is ensuring immediate relief and rescue operations. We pray Maa Ganga for everyone’s safety.”
Safety Measures and Future Actions after Maha Kumbh Fire Incident 2025
The incident has sparked a debate over the safety measures in place at the Maha Kumbh Mela, which attracts millions of devotees. Authorities have promised to enhance safety protocols, including stricter checks on LPG cylinders and other potential hazards.
Timeline of Events
| Event | Details |
| Fire Breakout | 4:30 PM, Sector 19, Gita Press tent |
| Cause | LPG cylinder explosions |
| Extent of Damage | 50 tents destroyed |
| Response | 15 fire tenders, NDRF, SDRF, and police teams deployed |
| Casualties | None reported |
| Current Status | Fire extinguished, situation under control |
Key Takeaways
- Rapid Response: The quick action by firefighters and disaster teams helped prevent further damage.
- No Casualties: Despite the massive fire, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
- Enhanced Safety Protocols Needed: The incident underscores the need for stringent safety measures at large public gatherings.
Conclusion
The fire at the Maha Kumbh 2025 serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in managing large-scale events. While the prompt response of the authorities prevented a greater disaster, the focus must now shift to implementing stricter safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all attendees.
