Days After Stampede, Six Injured in Hot Air Balloon Accident at Prayagraj Mahakumbh

A hot air balloon explosion at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj injured six people.

Sadhus at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.

Source : PTI

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Six people were injured on Monday when a hot air balloon filled with helium gas exploded at the Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj. The incident occurred near Sector 20 of the festival grounds, close to the Akahara Marg, as devotees were celebrating the Hindu festival of Basant Panchami.

The hot air balloon was being prepared for takeoff when it suddenly exploded, injuring all six people in the basket. The injured were immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where they are being treated for their injuries. One person is said to be in critical condition.

The cause of the explosion is not yet known but it is suspected that it might have been caused by a gas leak. The police are investigating the incident.

This is among a series of major accidents at the Maha Kumbh in recent days. On Sunday, a stampede at the festival left 30 people dead and over 100 injured. Moreover, multiple incidents of fires broke out at the Sangam site.

The Maha Kumbh is a major Hindu pilgrimage that is held every 12 years in Prayagraj. The festival attracts millions of devotees from all over the world.