A fire at a food stall abruptly ended Southall’s annual Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan celebration, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred on South Road on Sunday afternoon, as thousands gathered to mark the founding of the Khalsa Panth, a significant Sikh religious event.
Incident Details
Emergency services, including the London Fire Brigade (LFB) and paramedics, rushed to the scene after reports of a gas canister catching fire at one of the food stalls. The fire broke out shortly after the festival began at Park Avenue Gurdwara, where the procession was scheduled to culminate at Guru Nanak Road Gurdwara.
According to eyewitnesses, panic erupted as flames shot up from the stall, prompting people to “run for their lives”. One attendee described the chaotic scene:
“I was standing just a few shops away when I saw people fleeing. It was terrifying. I’m just grateful to be okay.”
At least four volunteers participating in the procession were among the injured. While the exact severity of their injuries remains unclear, a video posted by the event organizers stated that they were not serious.
Official Response
Ealing Council confirmed the incident on social media platform X, stating:
“Following a fire at a food stall, people were injured and as a result, a decision was made to stop the festival. The event, which was due to finish at 4 pm, has been stopped. Please do not attend and avoid the area as crowds disperse.”
The event organizers also posted on Instagram, expressing gratitude to the emergency services:
“Southall Nagarkirtan has been cancelled due to a gas canister catching alight on South Road today. A huge thank you to the emergency services for handling the incident.”
Community Reaction
The cancellation has left many disappointed, but safety remains the priority. Social media has been flooded with messages of support for those affected, with one post reading:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by the fire. Grateful to emergency services for their quick response.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, focusing on whether the gas canister was correctly handled and maintained. LFB has advised festival vendors and event organizers to ensure that safety protocols for gas and fire hazards are strictly followed.
A Tradition Interrupted
The Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan celebration is a beloved annual event in Southall, attracting thousands from the Sikh community and beyond. The procession typically features music, prayers, and food stalls, celebrating the spiritual and cultural significance of Vaisakhi.
Event organizers are working closely with local authorities to assess the situation and ensure that future events can proceed safely.
Support for the Injured
The injured individuals are being treated at local hospitals, and their conditions are being monitored. Ealing Council has urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to come forward as investigations continue.
What’s Next?
The area around South Road remains cordoned off while firefighters and investigators secure the site. People are advised to avoid the area to allow emergency services to carry out their work.
