Prayagraj: In the aftermath of a fire incident in the Maha Kumbh Mela area, the Fire Department has launched an extensive campaign to curb the use of small unauthorized gas cylinders. Over the past two days, the department, under the leadership of Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma, has seized more than 250 such gas cylinders from the Mela premises. This drive aims to prevent fire accidents caused by gas leaks from these cylinders. The seized cylinders will be destroyed and repurposed into an art installation called the ‘Suraksha Amrit Kalash’ (Safety Nectar Vessel).
Extensive Campaign Under Senior Leadership
The campaign is being conducted under the supervision of Additional Director General of Police, Prayagraj Zone, Bhanu Bhaskar. Reports had surfaced that despite warnings from the Fire Department, some individuals were secretly using unauthorized gas cylinders for cooking and other activities. As these activities posed significant fire hazards, the Fire Department initiated a large-scale crackdown.
Creation of ‘Suraksha Amrit Kalash’
According to Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma, the operation conducted on Wednesday and Thursday led to the confiscation of over 250 illegal gas cylinders. These cylinders were brought to the local police station for further action. Sharma further revealed that the cylinders would be dismantled and converted into a unique art installation named ‘Suraksha Amrit Kalash,’ which will be displayed at a prominent intersection in the Maha Kumbh Mela area. The installation aims to spread awareness about fire safety.
Fire Safety Readiness and Awareness
The Fire Department has set up camps in all 25 sectors of the Mela area, with personnel stationed 24/7 to handle any emergencies. Pramod Sharma emphasized that the department is fully prepared to address any fire-related challenges during the Mela. Additionally, fire safety awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate the public on dos and don’ts in case of a fire.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
The campaign has also involved key stakeholders, including K.M. Thakur, Chief General Manager of Indian Oil Corporation, who supported the Fire Department’s efforts.
The proactive measures taken by the Fire Department aim to ensure a safe and secure environment for millions of devotees and visitors attending the Maha Kumbh Mela. The innovative use of seized cylinders for the ‘Suraksha Amrit Kalash’ reflects a creative approach to combining safety awareness with cultural significance.
