Fire Breaks Out at Mahakumbh’s Sector 18: No Casualties Reported Amid Swift Response
A sudden fire broke out at Shankaracharya Marg in Sector 18 of the Maha Kumbh Mela, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and causing panic among devotees. The fire, which started around 10:45 AM, quickly spread, engulfing multiple tents in the area. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported as firefighters acted swiftly to contain the blaze.
Swift Action by Firefighters Averts Major Tragedy
According to Inspector Yogesh Chaturvedi of Khak Chowk police station, the fire erupted near Tulsi Chauraha on Old GT Road. Fire tenders were immediately dispatched, and after deploying three fire trucks, officials managed to bring the situation under control. Despite the rapid response, two to three tents were completely gutted, with damages extending to over a dozen nearby camps.
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting a possible short circuit. DIG (Maha Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna confirmed that the situation has been fully contained, ensuring that pilgrims remain safe.
ISKCON Camp and Past Fire Incidents at Maha Kumbh
While the fire occurred at ISKCON’s camp in Sector 18, it was separate from their mega community kitchen at Sector 19, which is being run in association with the Adani Foundation. Notably, Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his family had visited the site in January, offering free meals to devotees.
This marks the third major fire incident at the Maha Kumbh Mela, following a cylinder blast in Sector 19 on January 19, which gutted several camps, and a vehicle fire on January 25 in Sector 2 due to a short circuit in a parked car.
Maha Kumbh Continues Despite Fire Scares
The Maha Kumbh 2025, which commenced on January 13, will continue until February 26, drawing millions of pilgrims from across the globe. Authorities are ramping up fire safety measures to prevent further incidents and ensure a safe spiritual experience for all visitors.
