CM flags off vehicles, stresses need for modern equipment
Pioneer News Service
Ranchi
Jharkhand took a significant step towards modernising its fire and emergency response system on Thursday as Chief Minister Hemant Soren inducted 58 Mini Water Tender with Mist Technology vehicles into the state Fire Services fleet. The vehicles were flagged off at a programme organised at the Central Training Institute of the Home Guards in Dhurwa, Ranchi.
Describing the initiative as a major milestone in strengthening the state’s fire safety infrastructure, the Chief Minister said the new fleet would enhance the efficiency of firefighting operations and improve emergency response, particularly in densely populated urban localities, narrow streets and remote rural areas where conventional fire engines often face accessibility challenges.
Addressing the gathering, Soren said every second is critical during a fire emergency, and a quicker response can make the difference between saving and losing lives and property. He noted that the compact design of the new vehicles would enable fire personnel to reach locations inaccessible to larger fire tenders, ensuring timely intervention during emergencies.
The Chief Minister said the induction of the 58 vehicles is not merely an addition to the Fire Services fleet but reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens through a stronger and more modern emergency response system. He emphasised that with rapid urbanisation and changing settlement patterns, the need for an advanced fire safety network has become more important than ever.
The newly inducted vehicles are equipped with Mist Technology, which enables effective fire suppression while using water more efficiently. Officials said the technology would strengthen the state’s first-response capability and help firefighters contain blazes quickly, particularly in areas with limited water availability or difficult access.
Soren also highlighted the multifaceted role of firefighters, saying their responsibility extends beyond extinguishing flames to rescuing people trapped in life-threatening situations. He commended fire service personnel for their courage and dedication, noting that they routinely risk their own lives to protect others during emergencies.
Referring to a live demonstration of firefighting equipment held during the programme, the Chief Minister said public awareness and modern technology together are essential for reducing losses caused by fire incidents. He urged people to adopt proper fire safety practices while assuring that the government would continue investing in strengthening emergency response infrastructure across the state.
Officials said the deployment of the new mini water tenders is expected to significantly improve fire service coverage in underserved and hard-to-reach areas, making the state’s disaster response mechanism more effective and inclusive.
MLA Kalpana Soren, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Vandana Dadel, Director General of Fire Services M.S. Bhatia, Director General of Police Tadasha Mishra and other senior officials attended the programme.
