Fire Services Key to Disaster Response, Says DGP
The programme, attended by fire services DG Venkata Ramana and senior officials, began with tributes to personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
Vijayawada: Highlighting the crucial role of fire services in disaster management, Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Gupta on Tuesday noted that firefighters are the first responders during calamities.
Launching the Fire Services Week at the state fire services headquarters in Governorpet, he said fire prevention is a collective responsibility. He called for close coordination among fire services, police, disaster management, and health departments, and noted that technology would play a key role in strengthening fire safety.
The programme, attended by fire services DG Venkata Ramana and senior officials, began with tributes to personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. The DGP unfurled the flag and inspected an exhibition of modern firefighting equipment.
The DGP said the observance was not merely ceremonial but a reminder of the department’s service to the nation. Referring to the 1944 Bombay Port explosion, he said the tragedy laid the foundation for modern firefighting systems. “While people run out in fear, firefighters move in to save lives, reflecting discipline, courage, and commitment,” he said.
He noted that with rapid urbanisation and industrial growth, risks have increased, prompting the department to shift towards a proactive, technology-driven approach based on data and early warning systems. He stressed strict enforcement of safety norms, especially in firecracker and chemical industries, and urged businesses to install safety equipment and follow regulations.
Fire Safety DG Venkata Ramana said awareness programmes would be held statewide under the theme “Safe School – Safe Hospital – Fire Safety Society Together for Fire Prevention.” He said the department handled disasters like the Budameru floods and the Mantha cyclone effectively, responding to 13,000 fire calls till March 2025-26 and conducting 1,330 mock drills since January.
