With Durga Puja just weeks away, the state fire department has announced a major expansion of its safety measures to handle crowds and minimise fire risks during the festive season.
“To handle the crowd and reduce the risk of fire, 97 temporary fire stations are being set up across the state,” Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose said. In addition, around 250 designated spots in Kolkata and its suburban areas will be prepared for quick preliminary fire-fighting arrangements.
The department is also set to launch a fire safety awareness campaign through FM radio during the festive peak. On the main days of Durga Puja, fire officials led by the Director General of the Fire Department will be deployed at major pandals to ensure security.
Highlighting the growth of infrastructure, Bose said, “In 2011, there were only 109 fire stations in the state. Today, that number stands at 161. Very soon, 25 more permanent fire stations will be built so that fire safety facilities reach every corner of Bengal.”
The minister stressed the importance of technological advancement in fire safety. The department is preparing to introduce fire drones and robots to improve efficiency and safety during emergencies. “In the coming days, the latest equipment will be added to strengthen our capacity,” Bose said.
On the issue of recruitment, the minister confirmed that the court’s stay order has been lifted, and new appointments have already been made in the department.
Bose assured citizens that the fire brigade of Bengal is no longer “old-fashioned” but is becoming increasingly modern and technology-driven. “The importance of the fire department is increasing day by day. We are focusing on technology, infrastructure, and public involvement,” he added.
The state government’s elaborate preparations ahead of Durga Puja have given citizens some relief. However, the real test will be in how effectively these plans work on the ground once the festival begins.
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