Shimla (Baldeyan): As Fire Services Week concluded at the State Fire Training Centre in Baldeyan, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the state’s fire and home guard departments would soon be equipped with modern technology to improve emergency response in disaster-prone Himachal Pradesh.
In a moving ceremony that combined tribute and transformation, the Chief Minister flagged off 13 newly procured fire engines and honoured the brave personnel of the fire department for their exemplary service. Live demonstrations of firefighting and rescue operations showcased the department’s growing capabilities.
CM Sukhu paid homage at the martyrs’ memorial and announced a financial aid of ₹5 lakh each to the families of two firefighters, Joginder Pal and Ghanshyam, who laid down their lives during duty in Nalagarh, Solan in 2009. “Saving lives amidst flames is not just duty—it’s a heroic service,” he said, acknowledging the bravery of fire, police, and home guard personnel.
Highlighting future plans, the Chief Minister declared that the recruitment of 700 new home guards will begin soon to strengthen the force. He also lauded the key role played by Fire Services, Home Guards, and SDRF teams during the 2023 natural calamities, underlining the state’s vulnerability due to its geographic and climatic conditions.
CM Sukhu took the opportunity to underline his government’s focus on reforms, transparency, and public welfare. “Unlike the previous government, which mismanaged public funds, we have plugged corruption and generated an additional ₹2,200 crore in revenue,” he asserted. He added that the state is working to make Himachal self-reliant through policies rooted in education, healthcare, and disaster management.
The CM also reviewed an exhibition by the Fire Department and took the ceremonial salute from a parade led by Nitin Dhiman. Fire Services Director Satwant Atwal briefed the CM on departmental initiatives.
Also present were Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, RD & PR Minister Anirudh Singh, Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan, and other senior officials.
TNR News Network