Over 22.79 Lakh Devotees Take a Holy Dip at Sangam
On January 20, more than 22.79 lakh devotees performed the sacred bath at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. The Uttar Pradesh government reported that over 8.26 crore pilgrims have taken the holy dip since the beginning of the Maha Kumbh.
Massive Fire at Maha Kumbh Mela Camps
A massive fire broke out on Sunday evening at Shri Karpataru Dham, Varanasi, and Geeta Press, Gorakhpur camps in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela area. The fire reduced 280 cottages, five motorcycles, and ₹5 lakh in cash to ashes. The blaze also caused 13 LPG cylinders to explode.
Fire Safety Advisory Issued Following Cylinder Explosions
After the fire incident, the Uttar Pradesh government issued a fire safety advisory for all Maha Kumbh camps. The advisory emphasized:
- Immediate reporting of fire incidents to the Mela control, local police, or fire stations via emergency numbers 112, 1920, and 1090.
- Using fire-fighting equipment from a safe distance and ensuring awareness of exit routes.
- Keeping water and sand near tents for emergencies.
- Keeping gas cylinders upright and attempting to extinguish flames with a wet cloth or fire extinguisher.
- Avoiding storage of flammable materials like petrol, kerosene, or gas inside tents.
- Prohibiting the use of open flames, such as stoves or havan kunds, inside tents.
UP Cabinet Meeting on January 22 to Approve Religious Region Proposal
A crucial UP Cabinet meeting is scheduled for January 22 in the Maha Kumbh Nagar. The government is expected to approve a proposal declaring a religious region that will include Prayagraj, Varanasi, and five other districts. This move aims to enhance the region’s religious and cultural significance. Several other major decisions are also expected to be approved in the meeting.
Eyewitnesses Describe the Devastating Fire
Witnesses of the tragic fire reported hearing loud explosions from gas cylinders for nearly 30 minutes, similar to firecrackers bursting. The flames were so intense that they reached above the railway bridge, even as a train passed over it. Several lakh rupees in cash, stored inside the tents, were destroyed in the fire.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 continues to attract millions of devotees, despite challenges like fire hazards. Authorities remain on high alert to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.
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