Officials aim to make Mahakumbh-2025 a “zero-fire incident” event, with enhanced infrastructure and quicker response capabilities
In preparation for Mahakumbh-2025, authorities are prioritising fire safety to ensure the well-being of pilgrims and tourists across the 4,200-hectare mela area. Comprehensive measures, including deploying additional fire personnel, advanced equipment, and AI-powered fire detection cameras, are being implemented to minimise fire-related risks.
Officials aim to make Mahakumbh-2025 a “zero-fire incident” event, with enhanced infrastructure and quicker response capabilities. Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of Prayagraj and Nodal Officer for the event, Pramod Sharma, highlighted the extensive preparations being undertaken. “We are deploying advanced rescue tenders and 200 specially trained rescue teams. To control fire incidents in the camps of the *akharas* (Hindu monastic orders), 5,000 specialised fire extinguishers are also being provided,” he said.
For the first time, AI-enabled fire detection cameras will be installed throughout the mela area. These cameras are designed to identify potential fire outbreaks and instantly alert control rooms, enabling a rapid response within two minutes. This cutting-edge technology will be a critical tool in maintaining safety during the event, Sharma added.
Compared to Kumbh-2019, Mahakumbh-2025 will see significant enhancements in fire safety resources. The number of temporary fire stations will increase from 43 to 50, and temporary fire posts will rise from 15 to 20. Fire watch towers, crucial for monitoring, will also increase from 43 to 50.
Infrastructure upgrades include the installation of over 7,000 fire hydrants, compared to 4,200 in 2019. Similarly, the number of fire reserve water tanks will more than double, from 75 to 150. Manpower deployment will also see a substantial boost, rising from 1,551 personnel in 2019 to 2,071 in 2025. Fire vehicles have nearly doubled, from 166 to 351, ensuring a robust and efficient response system.
Past events underline the importance of these measures. In Kumbh-2013, 612 fire incidents were reported, resulting in six fatalities and 15 injuries. However, stringent safety measures during Kumbh-2019 reduced the number of incidents to just 55, with no fatalities or injuries. Officials aim to build on this success for Mahakumbh-2025.
The state government has also signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with the Uttarakhand Fire and Emergency Services and the National Fire Service College in Nagpur for external safety audits. These audits are expected to ensure adherence to the highest safety standards.
As the event draws nearer, authorities remain committed to providing a safe environment for the millions of attendees expected to visit the holy gathering. The increased focus on fire safety reflects a proactive approach to managing risks and ensuring a secure experience for all.
