Naidu Rolls Out ₹252.86-Crore Plan For Modernising AP Fire Services
The government had already deployed 65 vehicles in the first phase at an expenditure of ₹33 crore. The new 58 vehicles comprise 25 advanced fire-fighting vehicles, 20 water bowsers and 13 Quick Response Multipurpose Fire-Fighting Vehicles.
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced on Thursday that the state government is modernising AP Fire Services by procuring the latest fire-fighting vehicles and equipment in a phased manner at an estimated cost of ₹252.86 crore involving both the central and state funds.
The announcement came after he launched 58 advanced fire-fighting vehicles at a function on the Seed Access Road in Amaravati. The latest fleet has been purchased for ₹40 crore with funds from the 15th Finance Commission.
The government had already deployed 65 vehicles in the first phase at an expenditure of ₹33 crore. The new 58 vehicles comprise 25 advanced fire-fighting vehicles, 20 water bowsers and 13 Quick Response Multipurpose Fire-Fighting Vehicles.
The CM made it a point to review their features and operational capabilities.
He said a third phase of procurement would be taken up shortly. Strengthening infrastructure at the fire stations is also being prioritised.
The 25 advanced fire-fighting vehicles, costing ₹18.68 crore, would help fire personnel reach accident and fire sites in rural and forest areas quickly. The 20 water bowsers, costing ₹14.79 crore, have a capacity of 14,000 litres each and would provide continuous water supplies during major fires, particularly in urban and industrial areas.
The 13 Quick Response Multipurpose Fire-Fighting Vehicles, costing ₹6.37 crore, are equipped to operate in narrow, congested streets and densely populated areas, where conventional fire tenders may face difficulties.
Naidu said 17 new fire station buildings are under construction with each costing ₹2.25 crore. Six of these have already been completed. Another 36 fire stations were being modernised to strengthen fire service infrastructure across the state.
Speaking on the occasion, home minister Vangalapudi Anitha said every minute is crucial during a disaster and protecting lives and property remains a priority of the government. She underlined that the objective is to ensure rapid response, limit damage, and begin rescue and fire-fighting operations immediately.
Anitha asked fire personnel to make effective use of the new equipment and provide faster emergency services. “Wherever a disaster occurs, help must arrive quickly. Saving lives and protecting property is the ultimate goal,” she emphasised.
