Bhubaneswar, August 23: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday announced that the Odisha government will recruit 300 additional firefighters to bolster the state’s disaster management capabilities.
Addressing the passing-out ceremony of the 61st batch of fire-fighter trainees, Majhi lauded the Odisha Fire Services for achieving international acclaim and ranking among the top three in the country. He commended their outstanding role during this year’s Rath Yatra, calling their service “of the highest standard.”
To further enhance operational readiness, the Chief Minister outlined several new initiatives, including the installation of a firefighting simulator for improved training. He also disclosed plans to set up a state-of-the-art scuba diving training centre near Ramchandi in Konark to provide advanced rescue skills.
Majhi highlighted that Odisha’s firefighters will undergo joint training sessions with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in September, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts in tackling natural calamities.
“These firefighters, recruited just nine months ago under our administration, will serve as a vital shield for public safety during floods and cyclones,” Majhi affirmed.