Raipur, April 17, 2025:The Chhattisgarh government is taking consistent steps to strengthen the state’s civil safety and disaster response infrastructure. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today flagged off 18 new state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles at a program held at the Central Training Institute of Home Guards in Mana Camp, Raipur. On this occasion, he also inaugurated a newly constructed fire station-cum-residential complex in Sector-13, Nava Raipur, and a new office building for fire personnel in Mana.Major Step Toward Strengthening Emergency ResponseThe Chief Minister said these modern fire engines will significantly enhance the state’s emergency response capabilities and ensure better safety for citizens. He described it as a vital step in building a more robust firefighting infrastructure, boosting the morale and efficiency of fire personnel.“These new vehicles will enable quicker and more effective responses to fire incidents, helping save lives and property,” he said.CM Sai hailed firefighters as the “true heroes” of society, who serve with commitment and valor.Live Emergency Demo and Modern Equipment ExhibitionA live demonstration simulating a fire emergency was conducted by the State Disaster Response Force and Fire & Rescue personnel. CM Sai observed the operation attentively and appreciated the team’s swift and professional handling of the situation.An exhibition of advanced firefighting equipment was also held, where officials showcased tools such as the Lukas jack, glass breaker, air lifting bags, pelican tower light, diamond tip cutters, chainsaws, fire gel blankets, fire suits, and underwater cameras.Continuous Upgradation of Fire ServicesDeputy Inspector General of Police, Shri Ajat Shatru Bahadur Singh, highlighted that fire services were transferred from urban local bodies to the department in 2017. The state currently handles an average of 8,000 fire calls annually, with numbers peaking to 40 calls per day during summer.With the addition of these 18 new vehicles, the total number of fire engines in the state has risen to 161. Districts like Raigarh, Korba, Kabirdham, Dantewada, Dhamtari, Korea, and Ambikapur received the vehicles today.He also shared that NRDA has built the new fire station-cum-residential complex in Nava Raipur at a cost of ₹5.5 crore.Fire Safety Week Dedicated to Fallen FirefightersShri Singh informed that every year, April 14 is observed as Firefighters’ Martyrs Day, and Fire Safety Week is celebrated across India from April 14 to 20. The ongoing week is dedicated to honoring the brave personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.Dignitaries in AttendanceThe event was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, MLA Shri Motilal Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Shri Manoj Kumar Pingua, Director General of Police Shri Arun Dev Gautam, and Secretary to the CM Shri Rahul Bhagat, among other public representatives and senior officials.
publiccg Chhattisgarh NEWS