Alarm bells rang loud at Prayagraj’s iconic Magh Mela as firefighters tackled yet another blaze just 24 hours after the first one. This latest outbreak targeted a cluster of pilgrim accommodations near the Ganga ghats, turning the night sky orange with fire and panic.
The fire started from an electrical fault in a generator powering nearby stalls, according to official statements. ‘Improper earthing and overloaded sockets ignited the blaze,’ revealed the district fire officer, who led the containment efforts involving 12 tenders and water bowsers.
No lives were lost, but the destruction of 15-20 tents displaced dozens of families. Volunteers and sadhus helped in rescue operations, showcasing community spirit amid crisis. The site now bears scorch marks as a grim testament to the event’s vulnerabilities.
Echoing yesterday’s incident that razed a market area, this fire has sparked outrage over preparedness. Social media is abuzz with videos of the inferno, demanding accountability from organizers. The government has responded by beefing up fire stations within the mela premises to 50 and training 5,000 volunteers.
Key takeaways include mandatory use of flame-retardant materials and regular audits of power grids. The Maha Kumbh, steeped in centuries-old traditions, faces modern challenges of crowd control and hazard mitigation. Officials reassure that comprehensive safety nets are now active.
Pilgrims share mixed sentiments—faith overrides fear for many, yet calls for vigilance grow. With bathing dates intensifying, Prayagraj’s administration pledges an incident-free finale. These fires, though contained, spotlight the immense scale and stakes of this divine spectacle.