Cylinder Blast Triggers Major Fire At Maha Kumbh Mela In Prayagraj, Tenders Rushed To Spot; PM Dials UP CM

A major fire erupted at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj on Sunday evening, following the explosion of two or three gas cylinders in the Sector 19 campsite area, according to officials.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath arrived at the scene to assess the situation and oversee emergency response efforts.

Photo Credit: PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to Yogi Adityanath for updates on the fire incident.

Several fire tenders, already stationed at the venue as part of safety measures, swiftly responded and began rescue operations after the fire was reported. Local authorities, in collaboration with police and fire services, quickly managed to bring the fire under control.

"Two or three cylinders exploded in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela, causing a massive fire in the camps. The fire has been controlled. All people are safe, and no one has been injured," stated Prayagraj Zone ADG Bhanu Bhaskar, speaking to India Today TV.

Reports indicated that the flames spread across the campsite, destroying at least 18 tents. A team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) also arrived to assist fire services in extinguishing the blaze.

A video taken by a train passenger travelling on a nearby bridge showed large flames engulfing the campsite, with several tents reduced to ash.

Officials confirmed that people in surrounding tents were evacuated for safety, and no injuries or casualties have been reported.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak noted that a team of officials from the government and the health department were at the site to assist saints and devotees attending the Maha Kumbh. "The government is also closely monitoring the entire incident. The situation is completely under control," he posted on X in Hindi.

The official Maha Kumbh 2025 X account shared, "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."

The grand Maha Kumbh 2025 festival began on January 13, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima.

To date, over 7.72 crore devotees have participated in the sacred Hindu event by taking the holy dip. On Sunday alone, more than 46.95 lakh devotees performed the 'snan' (holy dip).