PRAYAGRAJ, Dec. 8 -- The Fire department has started preparations to combat any fire incident during the forthcoming Magh Mela 2026. The department has already completed most of the work for establishment of 20 fire stations, seven fire outposts, and 20 watch towers in the mela area besides 650 firefighters will also be deployed to attend to any emergency during mela period. The department has set a three-minute response time for reaching of fire tenders at any site of fire breakout in any of the seven sectors of the mela.

According to Animesh Singh, chief fire officer of Magh Mela, a total of 20 fire stations will be established, and a strict ban will be imposed on the use of illegal LPG cylinders by devotees. He added that efforts will...