MahaKumbh 2025: Drone footage reveals a fire erupting beneath a railway bridge near Sector 19

Maha Kumbh 2025: Fire Beneath Railway Bridge Near Sector 19 Sparks Safety Concerns

As millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for the grand Maha Kumbh 2025, an unexpected incident caught on drone footage has raised safety alarms. A fire erupted beneath a railway bridge near Sector 19, a key location close to the main congregation areas. The footage, captured during routine aerial monitoring of the event, shows thick plumes of smoke billowing from the site, sparking immediate concern among authorities and the public.

The fire was first detected late in the afternoon on January 25, 2025, as drones used for crowd surveillance and security measures spotted the blaze. Emergency response teams, including the fire department and railway officials, were dispatched immediately. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire originated from a pile of discarded materials, potentially ignited by stray sparks or improper disposal of flammable items. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.

Railway officials temporarily halted train services on the affected bridge as a precautionary measure. Structural engineers were also called in to assess any potential damage to the bridge. "We are prioritizing safety and ensuring that there is no risk to pilgrims or railway operations," said a senior railway officer on-site.

The incident has brought attention to the immense logistical and safety challenges of managing an event of this magnitude. With an estimated 30 million people expected to participate in the holy gathering, authorities have already deployed advanced technology, including drones and AI-powered crowd management systems, to ensure smooth operations.

Pilgrims nearby were evacuated from the area as a safety measure, and the fire was brought under control within an hour. Local residents and attendees praised the swift action of the emergency teams, though many expressed concerns about waste management and fire safety protocols around such critical infrastructure.

As the Maha Kumbh continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness. Authorities have ramped up monitoring and inspection efforts to prevent similar occurrences, ensuring that devotees can safely immerse themselves in the spiritual experience of the world’s largest religious gathering.