The Housing & Urban Development Department, in collaboration with Odisha Fire Services, organised a high-level virtual workshop on fire safety awareness and preparedness in Bhubaneswar today.
The session focused on synchronising emergency response protocols and enhancing technical readiness across all Urban Local Bodies.
Director General of Fire Services Dr Sudhansu Sarangi delivered the technical briefing. He highlighted preventive measures, modern firefighting equipment, and institutional readiness. He announced that a state-wide fire safety mock drill will take place on Saturday and urged all ULBs to cooperate for its success.
Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee emphasised integrating fire safety into urban governance. She directed all ULBs to include fire safety measures in the Mukhya Mantri Sahari Bikas Yojana during the upcoming financial year.
Commissioners of municipal corporations, executive officers of municipalities, and NAC representatives participated actively. Fire officers and deputy fire officers also joined virtually, ensuring a cohesive approach across the state.
The workshop addressed urgent safety needs following recent fire incidents. Discussions revolved around three pillars: preparedness, prevention, and public awareness. Officials outlined key action points, including continuous sensitisation of officials and citizens, mandatory safety inspections, and grassroots awareness campaigns.
Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua set the agenda, stressing the importance of coordinated state-wide preparedness. The workshop concluded with directives for ULB heads to initiate safety audits and awareness drives immediately.
