Tragic Fire Incident at Magh Mela Claims Young Pilgrim's Life
A devastating fire broke out in a tent at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj on Thursday night. The blaze claimed the life of a young pilgrim, marking a somber note during the holy festival.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The victim, identified as Manas Mishra, was 25 years old and hailed from Sarai Inayat in Prayagraj. He was staying alone in a tent located in Sector-5 of the Mela area. Police received an alert about the fire at 11:20 PM.
Ganga Prasad, the Station House Officer of the temporary police station set up for the Magh Mela, provided details. A police team and a fire tender rushed to the site immediately. However, by the time they arrived, the tent was already engulfed in flames.
Firefighters managed to douse the blaze within a few minutes. Unfortunately, Mishra had sustained severe burn injuries inside the tent. He was alone at the time of the incident.
Medical Response and Fatal Outcome
Rescue personnel rushed Mishra to Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital for emergency treatment. Doctors at the hospital informed senior officials that he had suffered burns covering 90% of his body.
Despite medical efforts, Mishra succumbed to his injuries on Friday morning. His family members were informed about the tragic incident on Thursday night.
Ritual Practices and Preliminary Investigation
Mishra was among the Kalpvasis, devotees who stay on the banks of the Ganga at the Sangam for the entire month of Magh. As part of their rituals, Kalpvasis keep a diya, or oil lamp, lit continuously throughout the month.
SHO Prasad stated that a preliminary inquiry suggests this diya may have caused the fire. The incident occurred on Thursday, which was also the day of the holy snan for Makar Sankranti, adding to the festival's significance.
Series of Fire Incidents at the Mela
This tragic event represents the third fire incident at the Magh Mela in just three days. Similar incidents occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday, where tents caught fire due to short circuits in power cables.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in those previous incidents. The administration is now reviewing safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
Administrative Response and Support
Officials mentioned that the administration may announce an ex-gratia payment to Mishra's family after the autopsy is completed. This gesture aims to provide some support during their time of loss.
The Magh Mela, a significant religious gathering, continues with heightened safety concerns following these repeated fire incidents. Authorities are urging pilgrims to exercise caution with fire sources during their stay.
