No space to park fire tenders, Chamba fire station struggles to stay relevant amid growing needs, staff strength down from 36 to 16
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The Newz Radar
CHAMBA: The historical town of Chamba, which has a treasure trove of ancient buildings preserved since several decades, faces a modern challenge as its centuries-old fire station continues to operate without a dedicated building.
Established during the erstwhile princely period in the heart of the town, the fire station, responsible for safeguarding the approximately 30,000 residents, remains housed in a small historical structure, presently managed by the Public Works Department.
With the escalating number of fire incidents, the fire station over time has received new equipment to handle emergencies. However, the irony persists as the station still functions in cramped quarters, lacking adequate space to house firefighting vehicles. The consequence of parking these essential vehicles outdoors under the sky has resulted in damages, further compromising the station’s efficiency.
Efforts to provide the fire station with its own building proved futile so far. About two years ago, a piece of land adjacent to the city was earmarked for the purpose. But bureaucratic hurdles have confined this initiative to mere paperwork, leaving the fire station stuck in its current inadequate facilities.
To secure a new location, the fire department applied for a no objection certificate (NOC) from the Municipal Council office of Chamba to transfer Forest Department land under their jurisdiction. But the application remains untouched, adding to the challenges faced by the fire station.
Staffing issues compound the situation, with the number of personnel dwindling from 36 to 16 in recent times. “The neglect suffered by the Chamba fire station raises concerns, as it grapples with outdated facilities to fulfill its crucial role in protecting the town’s growing population and ancient buildings,” said an official.
