A day before the Kumbh Mela starts, a fire broke out at a camp in Digambar Akhara at Prayagraj today. No one has been injured in the fire, said security officials present at the location.
The fire was brought under control within a few minutes, firefighters told news agencies. Local reports suggest a cylinder blast led to the fire.
Around ten ambulances and an air ambulance were immediately sent to the spot. "No casualties have been reported so far," Nodal Officer, Disaster Management, Dr Rishi Sahay told news agency ANI
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered the fire department to inspect all the camps. He has also asked the Mela administration to provide compensation for the tents destroyed in the fire and ensure there is no repeat of the incident. The Kumbh Mela is set to begin in Prayagraj, formerly called Allahabad, from January 15. Over 12 crore pilgrims are expected at the Kumbh Mela, described by the UNESCO as the most significant "peaceful congregation of pilgrims on the earth."
Apart from Prayagraj, Kumbh is also celebrated in Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik.
