Lucknow / New Delhi – The Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Department has brought laurels to the state and the nation, earning international recognition for its exemplary work during Mahakumbh-2025. At an international programme organised by the Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI) at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi, the department was conferred with the prestigious “Bravery and Super Hero of Fire Services Award.” The honour was bestowed on the team led by ADG Padmaja Chauhan (IPS).
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had, right from the outset, pledged a “Safe Mahakumbh” and ensured state-of-the-art technology, advanced equipment, and large-scale manpower deployment for the mega religious event. This vision and close monitoring resulted in the successful and incident-free conclusion of the 45-day gathering, despite the presence of over 665 million devotees.
Zero Casualty Goal Achieved
ADG Padmaja Chauhan highlighted that under CM Yogi’s guidance, the department successfully responded to even the most serious fire incidents with speed and efficiency. Throughout the 45-day Mahakumbh, the team managed 185 fire incidents, including 24 major ones, preventing loss of life and saving property worth nearly Rs 16.5 crore.
Recognising Team Effort
Apart from ADG Chauhan, key officers including Pramod Sharma (Nodal Officer, Mahakumbh Mela), Ankush Mittal (CFO), Ramesh Tiwari (CFO), Sanjeev Kumar (Fire Officer), and Amit Kumar (Second Fire Officer) were also honoured. According to Sharma, the zero-casualty achievement was the direct outcome of war-level preparations undertaken months before the festival.
Technology and Deployment at Scale
The department had set up 54 fire stations and 27 outposts across 25 sectors of the Mahakumbh area. More than 1,500 trained fire personnel and 351 fire tenders were deployed. Cutting-edge tools such as articulating water towers, quick response vehicles, ATVs, fire mist bikes, robots, and fire-fighting boats were extensively used, ensuring swift containment of incidents.
Commendations Beyond Uttar Pradesh
Prior to the event, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant had also felicitated ADG Chauhan and Nodal Officer Pramod Sharma, lauding the department’s readiness.
Global Echo of Excellence
The international award has amplified the department’s achievement across India and abroad. With its zero-fatality record during one of the world’s largest congregations, the UP Fire Services has not only safeguarded lives but also set a benchmark in fire and emergency management.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of a “Safe Mahakumbh” has thus been successfully realised, resonating as a model of preparedness, resilience, and efficiency.
