Uttar Pradesh Government Issues Critical Fire Safety Advisory for Maha Kumbh 2025: Key Precautions and Emergency Protocols

Uttar Pradesh Government Issues Critical Fire Safety Advisory for Maha Kumbh 2025: Key Precautions and Emergency Protocols (Image: ANI)

As millions of devotees gather at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued a comprehensive fire safety advisory to ensure the safety of pilgrims and prevent fire-related mishaps during the grand event. The advisory outlines key precautions and emergency protocols to be followed by all camps and devotees attending the festival.

Emergency Protocols and Contact Information

In case of a fire or emergency, the government has urged people to promptly contact emergency services via the helpline numbers 112, 1920, 1090, or the numbers provided by the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).

To alert others of a fire incident, the advisory recommends creating noise to notify nearby camps and ensure swift action.

Officials emphasise the importance of remaining calm during emergencies and using available fire-fighting equipment from a safe distance to control the situation without putting oneself in danger.

Fire Safety Precautions

1. Readiness with Fire-Fighting Equipment

• Keep fire-fighting tools, such as fire extinguishers, water, and sand, readily available near tents.
• Familiarise yourself with the location and usage of fire-fighting equipment to respond effectively in emergencies.

2. Tent Safety Guidelines

• Avoid storing flammable substances such as petrol, kerosene, diesel, or candles inside tents.
• Do not use non-standard or leaking gas cylinders. Never bury cylinders in the ground.
• Refrain from using plastic or synthetic fabrics for tent construction. Such materials are highly flammable.
• Avoid using open flames like stoves or havan kunds inside tents.

3. Preventive Measures for Cooking and Lighting

• Never add oil to burning lamps, stoves, or gas burners.
• Do not store highly flammable items and avoid cooking outdoors during strong winds.

Evacuation and Fire Control

• Use water, sand, or other fire-fighting tools to extinguish the flames.
• Prioritise evacuating children and vulnerable individuals.
• Cut down tent ropes or strings to prevent the fire from spreading further.

For gas cylinder fires, it is advised to:

• Keep the cylinder upright and try to extinguish the fire using a wet cloth or fire extinguisher.
• Stop any gas leakage if possible and move away from the area safely.
• The advisory also urges people to focus on assisting others during a fire rather than recording videos of the incident, emphasising the need for cooperation and compassion in such situations.

Safety Awareness Among Devotees

The government’s proactive approach comes after a recent fire incident at a camp, reportedly caused by a gas cylinder blast. The fire was brought under control, but it underscored the importance of stringent safety measures.

Meanwhile, the Maha Kumbh 2025 continues to draw massive crowds, with over 2 million devotees having taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam so far.

The fire safety advisory serves as a crucial reminder of the collective responsibility of officials, organisers, and pilgrims to ensure a safe and harmonious experience at the Maha Kumbh Mela. By adhering to these guidelines, devotees can minimise risks and focus on the spiritual essence of this sacred gathering.

The Maha Kumbh is a monumental event, and with proper precautions in place, it can remain a joyous and spiritually enriching celebration for all.