NEW DELHI — A significant fire broke out in a temporary tent area during a major Hindu festival attended by millions in Prayagraj city, located in northern India, officials reported on Sunday. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from the incident.
The fire was ignited by a gas cylinder explosion but was effectively extinguished by firefighters, as per police accounts. Images captured from the expansive tent city at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers depicted thick smoke rising as numerous firefighters worked to control the flames.
The Maha Kumbh festival, which takes place once every 12 years, commenced last Monday and is recognized as the largest religious congregation worldwide. Attendance figures have already reached approximately 77 million, with expectations projecting more than 400 million participants throughout the festival’s duration over the next six weeks.
Devotees believe that taking a ritual bath at this sacred confluence purifies them from sins and liberates them from the cycle of reincarnation.
To support the influx of holy men, pilgrims, and tourists visiting the event, officials have established a vast tent city along the riverbanks. This setup includes 3,000 kitchens, 150,000 toilets, and also features roads, electricity, water supply, communication towers, and 11 hospitals to cater to the needs of attendees.
In order to ensure the safety and manage the large crowds, approximately 50,000 security personnel have been deployed across the city. The comprehensive arrangements demonstrate the importance of maintaining order and providing necessary services during such a significant gathering.
