Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off 14 new fire fighting vehicles and announced the recruitment of 700 Home Guards in the state. This initiative aims to strengthen emergency services and ensure public safety.
Himachal Pradesh: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off 14 new fire fighting vehicles at Chaura Maidan in Shimla. He stated that this step is aimed at further strengthening emergency services in the state. These vehicles, costing a total of Rs 6.70 crore, will be deployed at fire stations in Deha, Ubadesh, Nerwa, and Theog in Shimla district; Dharampur and Thunag in Mandi district; Kaza in Lahaul and Spiti; Shahpur and Indora in Kangra; and Nadaun in Hamirpur.
The Chief Minister explained that the deployment of these vehicles has been planned keeping in mind the needs of remote and densely populated areas, to ensure timely control of fire incidents. He also mentioned that an additional Rs 25 crore has been allocated for the purchase of more fire fighting vehicles to further strengthen the fire department's fleet.
Recruitment of 700 Home Guards
On this occasion, Chief Minister Sukhu announced that the recruitment process for 700 Home Guards in the state will begin soon. This measure aims to increase the number of personnel in emergency services and bolster security arrangements. Sukhu affirmed that the state government is fully committed to strengthening fire and emergency services and will provide financial assistance as required.
He informed that Rs 4.24 crore has been approved for equipment for new and upgraded fire stations and Rs 7 crore for the construction of departmental buildings in Nadaun and Indora for the financial year 2025-26.
Expansion of Departmental Efficiency and Resources
The Chief Minister stated that the state government's priority is to ensure adequate resources for emergency services in every district. He noted that the new recruitments and the deployment of these 14 vehicles will ensure the safety of citizens and enable timely action during emergencies like fires. He also added that the construction of departmental buildings and the upgrade of equipment will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of fire services.
Dignitaries Present at the Event
Also present at the occasion were MLA Harish Janartha, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board Nardev Singh Kanwar, Additional Director General of Police and Director Fire Services Satwant Atwal Trivedi, Chief Fire Officer Sanjeev Kumar, and senior officials of the department. The Chief Minister instructed officials and employees to ensure proper utilization of the new arrangements and to respond swiftly in emergency situations.
Sukhu appealed to citizens and employees to adhere to these new arrangements and remain vigilant about safety. He emphasized that the new recruitments and vehicles are crucial not only from an administrative perspective but also for protecting people's lives and property.
