Mon Jan 20 06:42:02 UTC 2025: ## Massive Fire Engulfs Kumbh Mela Camps, Causing Millions in Damages
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh:** A devastating fire ripped through two camps at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj’s Sector-19 on Sunday afternoon, destroying approximately 300 bamboo and thatch cottages. The blaze, which broke out around 4 pm near the Karpatra Dham Varanasi and Gita Press Gorakhpur camps, quickly spread due to strong winds, consuming five motorcycles and ₹500,000 in cash. Explosions from over 10 LPG cylinders further fueled the inferno.
While no fatalities were reported, two individuals from Haryana and Siliguri sustained burns and were hospitalized. Fifteen fire brigade teams battled the blaze for nearly an hour before bringing it under control. The fire reportedly spread across more than 100 square meters, engulfing over 50 tents. The estimated damage is over ₹25 million.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, accompanied by three ministers, visited the site and issued instructions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also contacted CM Adityanath to inquire about the incident. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as flames engulfed the camps, with people desperately attempting to contain the fire with water.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and is under investigation. Authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage and providing assistance to those affected.
First Piper 