Tragedy struck the sacred Gangasagar Mela in West Bengal when a ferocious fire gutted multiple temporary tents, leaving a trail of destruction amid the spiritual fervor. Held annually on Sagar Island during Makar Sankranti, the fair attracts lakhs of devotees seeking purification in the Ganga’s waters.
The blaze broke out suddenly in the densely packed tent city, where pilgrims rest and shop. What began as a small spark quickly escalated into an inferno, fueled by dry thatch roofs and clustered bamboo frames. Screams pierced the night air as people fled in panic, with volunteers forming human chains to rescue the trapped.
Fortunately, swift intervention by fire brigade teams averted a larger catastrophe, though the damage to property is extensive. Vendors who invested heavily in the mela season now face ruin, their stalls reduced to charred remains. Medical teams treated dozens for smoke inhalation and burns at makeshift clinics.
Opposition BJP has launched a scathing attack on the state administration, labeling the fire a ‘man-made disaster born of apathy.’ Senior leader Dilip Ghosh questioned the lack of fire hydrants, extinguishers, and emergency exits at the venue. ‘Mamata Didi’s government prioritizes politics over people’s lives,’ he alleged, calling for compensation and accountability.
As the mela continues with subdued celebrations, officials promise enhanced vigilance. This incident underscores persistent safety concerns at mega religious events in India, where devotion often collides with inadequate infrastructure. Devotees remain undeterred, but the ashes serve as a grim reminder of vulnerabilities.