A fire erupted in Sector 18 of the Mahakumbh Mela Kshetra in Prayagraj on Friday, prompting a swift response from the fire brigade. Multiple fire tenders were deployed to douse the blaze, with efforts still underway.
Details about the cause and extent of the fire remain undisclosed.
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, over 397.4 million devotees have taken a holy dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati during the ongoing Maha Kumbh. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also participated by taking a sacred dip.
The incident follows a similar fire last week in the Chatnag Ghat Police Station area, where 15 unauthorised tents caught fire. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as firefighters managed to control the flames swiftly.
UP Fire Department official Pramod Sharma said, "We got information about a fire in 15 tents under the Chatnag Ghat Police Station area, today. Taking immediate action, the fire was brought under control and doused."
The Mahakumbh has witnessed other mishaps, including a cooking gas cylinder explosion and a stampede on January 29, which tragically claimed 30 lives and injured 60 others.
Also read: PM Modi offers prayers, takes dip at Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam
In response, the Uttar Pradesh government announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a judicial inquiry and directed a judicial committee to submit its report within a specified timeframe.
The Mahakumbh, which commenced on January 13, will continue until February 26. The remaining major 'snan' dates are February 12 (Maghi Purnima) and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).
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