Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who was present in Prayagraj at the time, promptly visited the affected area to evaluate the situation. He directed officials to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees and to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.
The blaze began around 4:08 p.m. local time due to a gas leak in the kitchen of the Gita Press camp. Firefighters, along with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), responded swiftly, deploying 45 fire engines and over 200 personnel to contain the flames.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple cylinder explosions before the fire spread to nearby tents and huts. The thatched roofs of some structures contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Despite the extensive property damage, no casualties or injuries were reported. Approximately 25 individuals present in the vicinity were safely evacuated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Chief Minister Adityanath to inquire about the incident and to ensure that all necessary measures were being taken to manage the situation effectively.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world's largest religious gathering, commenced on January 13, 2025, and is expected to attract around 400 million pilgrims over its six-week duration. Devotees congregate at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers to perform rituals believed to purify them of sins.
In preparation for the massive influx of pilgrims, the Uttar Pradesh government has invested significantly in infrastructure and safety measures. A temporary city has been constructed, featuring tents, portable toilets, roads, lighting, and bridges to accommodate attendees. Additionally, over 50,000 police personnel have been deployed to manage security and crowd control.
The fire incident has prompted authorities to reassess safety protocols, particularly concerning the use of LPG cylinders in temporary structures. Officials have initiated an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the fire and to implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.