 Early Times Report
SRINAGAR, Apr 14: Fire Service Day was solemnly observed today at the Headquarters of Fire & Emergency Services, J&K, Batamaloo, Srinagar, marking the commencement of Fire Service Week being observed from 14th to 20th April, 2026 across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was held under the leadership of Alok Kumar, IPS (Addl. DGP), Director, Fire & Emergency Services, J&K, who paid rich tributes to the brave firefighters who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Floral tributes were offered to the martyrs of the historic Bombay Dock Explosion, which is commemorated every year as Fire Service Day.
A ceremonial function was held at the headquarters, where senior officers and personnel participated and observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect. The occasion reflected the department's deep sense of commitment, discipline, and service to the people.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director highlighted the significance of Fire Service Day and emphasized that Fire Service Week is observed nationwide to promote awareness about fire prevention, preparedness, and safety measures among the public. The theme for this year, "Safe School, Safe Hospital & Fire Safety Aware Society - Together for Fire Prevention," underscores the importance of strengthening fire safety systems in critical institutions and promoting a culture of safety in society.
Highlighting the achievements of the department, the Director informed that during the year 2025, the department responded to 6,039 fire calls, 59 rescue calls, and 53 false calls with the deployment of 322 fire tenders and Quick Response Vehicles supported by 2,157 personnel. These timely efforts resulted in saving property worth approximately ?5,000 crore while limiting losses to around ?300 crore.
He further stated that a significant reduction of 1,994 fire incidents, nearly 25% decline compared to the previous year, reflects the success of sustained fire prevention measures and increasing public awareness.
Emphasizing community participation, he informed that under various awareness initiatives, including the "Har Ghar Fire Fighter" concept, around 10,794 awareness programmes have been conducted, reaching over 10.7 lakh people across the Union Territory. Additionally, 3,728 fire safety audits were carried out in hospitals, schools, hotels, and commercial establishments to strengthen safety compliance.
The Director also highlighted the department's role in disaster response, including rescue and dewatering operations at multiple locations during recent flood situations, and arrangements made during major events like Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025.
As part of Fire Service Week, a series of activities including fire safety awareness campaigns, mock drills, evacuation exercises, lectures, and demonstrations will be conducted across the UT to educate the public on fire prevention and emergency response.
Urging citizens to actively participate, the Director appealed to adopt basic fire safety measures and support the mission of building a fire-safe society.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and upholding its motto, "We Serve to Save." |
