Massive Fire Breaks Out at Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Over 70 Huts and Tents Destroyed
Massive Fire at Maha Kumbh 2025: PM Modi, CM Yogi Adityanath Take Stock as Cylinder Blasts Ravage 70 Huts, Tents
In a devastating incident at the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, a massive fire engulfed Sector 19 of the mela on Sunday evening, destroying over 70 huts and 10 tents. The blaze, reportedly caused by a cylinder explosion at the Gita Press tent, quickly spread, creating chaos and panic among the attendees.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reached out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to assess the situation. CM Yogi Adityanath visited the site, spoke with officials, and ensured the effective deployment of firefighting teams. Visuals from the site revealed thick black smoke billowing across the skies as emergency responders worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames and evacuate people.
According to Additional District Magistrate (Mela), Vivek Chaturvedi, the fire caused significant property damage, with around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents burned. However, no casualties were reported, and everyone present in the affected areas was safely rescued.
The fire, which broke out at 4:30 PM, was swiftly addressed by fire administration teams, police, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). DIG Maha Kumbh Mela, Vaibhav Krishna, confirmed that over 15 fire tenders were deployed to control the fire and evacuate the affected individuals. Senior officials and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath closely monitored the developments on-site to ensure public safety.
Additional Director General (ADG) Bhanu Bhaskar stated that immediate action was taken, with comprehensive evacuation measures leading to the safe rescue of all attendees. The situation was brought under control after coordinated efforts by multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). MK Sharma, DIG NDRF, commended the teamwork of the deployed units, which ensured that the fire was doused without loss of life. Four teams of NDRF were actively involved in handling the emergency.
The cause of the cylinder blast that triggered the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have launched an inquiry to determine the circumstances that led to the incident.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a significant religious gathering, draws millions of visitors every year. Despite this unfortunate fire incident, swift response by emergency services and proactive leadership by local and state authorities have reassured the public about their safety at this ongoing spiritual event.