Video editor: Abhishek Sharma
A fire broke out on Monday, 14 January, at the Digambar Akhada premises of the Kumbh Mela, a day before the mega event begins in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj.
"The fire was caused due to a cylinder blast in a tent," Akhada police station inspector Bhaskar Mishra told PTI adding that no loss of life was reported.
According to the official, fire broke out around 12.45 pm but was doused within 10 minutes after six fire tenders rushed to the spot.
Nearly eight ambulances were also called soon after the incident.
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Eye-Wtiness Allege Fire Caused Due to Mismanagement
An eye-witness assessed by ANI said that the fire was caused due to ‘mismanagement within the Kumbh mela premise’. The man further alleged that the fire could've been triggered by cigarette that may have led to the cylinder blast.
The head of the Digambar Ani Akhada said the fire began at an adjoining tent and spread to the kitchen of their camp, triggering the cylinder blast.
The 2019 Kumbh Mela will commence on 15 January on Makar Sankranti which will be the first bathing day. Mahashivratri on 4 March will mark the last bathing day.
Devotees take holy dips at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati.
(With inputs from ANI and PTI)
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