BREAKING NEWS] Massive fire breaks out at Maha Kumbh Mela

A significant fire erupted at the Maha Kumbh Mela on Sunday, resulting from a cylinder explosion that consumed 18 tents in Sector 19, according to officials. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in connection with the incident, as stated by the government. Pramod Sharma, Chief Fire Officer of Kumbh Mela, confirmed that 15 fire tenders were deployed to tackle the inferno, which swiftly spread through the makeshift camps.

"The fire has been extinguished, and the situation in the area is now under control," Sharma affirmed.

Earlier, Bhaskar Mishra, In-charge of the Akhara Police Station, revealed that two LPG cylinders had exploded in Sector 19, igniting a major fire in the campsite.

Senior officials were present at the scene, and the fire teams succeeded in containing the blaze, as noted in the government’s statement.

The official X handle for Maha Kumbh 2025 expressed their dismay, stating, "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." Accompanying this statement was a video showing a thick column of black smoke rising from the affected area.

In the meantime, devotees continued to gather at the Maha Kumbh Mela, undeterred by the dense fog that had settled over the region. Despite the adverse weather conditions, the number of pilgrims remained robust.

As of January 18, over 77.2 million pilgrims have immersed themselves at the sacred Sangam Triveni.