In a move to strengthen Delhis fire safety infrastructure and response capabilities, Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood on Friday announced several equipment upgrades, including 17 new water bowsers, four aerial water towers, and 24 quick response vehicles for Delhi Fire Service. Additionally, Robotic fire vehicles will also be added to the fleet to enhance rescue operations in high-risk and hard-to-reach zones, said officials. The Home Minister chaired a high-level meeting at the Delhi Secretariat with top officials of the Delhi Fire Service to review the departments preparedness under the Summer Action Plan and outlined a roadmap to transform the fire service into a state-of-the-art institution. The meeting included detailed discussions on administrative and financial aspects of the department. The Director of the Delhi Fire Service informed the Minister that Delhi currently operates 65 fire stations and deploys 311 fire units staffed by 2,420 personnel. Ongoing efforts aim to reduce the working hours of firefighters to improve efficiency and well-being. The Home Minister emphasised the urgent need to modernise the capitals firefighting systems, keeping in mind the challenges posed by Delhis growing population and densely populated urban areas. A key highlight of the session was the announcement of several equipment upgrades, including 17 new water bowsers, four aerial water towers, and 24 quick response vehicles. Robotic fire vehicles will also be added to the fleet to enhance rescue operations in high-risk and hard-to-reach zones. Sood said that smaller, agile fire engines are crucial for navigating congested markets and narrow lanes, allowing quicker access during emergencies. He also underlined the need to adopt modern technology in fire detection, response, and communication systems. One of the key topics discussed was an upcoming Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be signed between the Directorate General of Civil Defence & Fire Services (under the Ministry of Home Affairs), the National Centre for Good Governance, and the Delhi Fire Service. This partnership is expected to bring significant upgrades to the department by integrating advanced global technologies, modern training methods, and amendments to the existing Fire Services Act. The Home Minister also called for a comprehensive strategic plan that addresses both short-term needs and long-term goals over the next 15 to 20 years. He instructed the Director of Fire Services to study best practices from other Indian states and global models to incorporate effective and innovative techniques into Delhis system. As part of public outreach, Sood directed officials to initiate a widespread awareness campaign on fire safety, especially during the peak summer season. These programs will target schools, residential colonies, and community centers to educate citizens on basic fire prevention and emergency response. Preparedness and public awareness are the twin pillars of fire safety,  Sood remarked, urging the department to act swiftly on the Summer Action Plan to mitigate seasonal fire risks.

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