Prayagraj’s Magh Mela, the prelude to Maha Kumbh’s grandeur, faced double trouble with a second fire erupting in under a day. Igniting in the densely packed tent city, the flames consumed bamboo frames and cloth coverings before being doused after intense efforts.
The culprit, as per a senior bureaucrat, was a classic case of electrical overload. ‘Wires not rated for the heavy load from festival lights and fans sparked the fire,’ the official noted, citing rapid urbanization of the temporary city as a factor.
Fire services deployed water cannons and foam, controlling the spread within 90 minutes. Evacuations were swift, averting tragedy among the sea of devotees. Damage assessment pegs losses at several lakhs, with insurance claims underway.
Building on lessons from the prior blaze that hit supply depots, measures now include segregated power zones and auto-cutoff switches. The Uttar Pradesh Fire Service has ramped up patrols, while NGOs distribute safety kits.
As the holy event unfolds, blending devotion with discipline is key. Organizers highlight successes like seamless crowd flow via AI tech, but these fires test resilience. Devotees pray for protection, trusting in divine grace alongside human efforts.
Looking ahead, a safety overhaul is promised post-mela, influencing future Kumbhs. Prayagraj remains a beacon of spirituality, where even mishaps reinforce the triumph of faith over adversity. The saga continues, with safety now etched in every plan.