Odisha to set up world-class simulator for firefighter training: CM Majhi

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced that the Odisha government will establish a world-class simulator to enhance the quality of training for firefighters, equipping them to handle challenging and life-threatening situations with greater expertise.

Speaking at the 61st Firefighters’ Convocation Ceremony at the Baramunda Fire Training Centre in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister said the simulator will provide modern facilities to prepare firefighters for diverse emergency scenarios.

He further informed that a National-level Water Efficiency and Life-saving Training Centre will soon be operational at Ramchandi, Konark, at an estimated cost of ₹12 crore. Alongside, a Scuba Diving Training Centre, costing ₹10 crore, will also be established at the same location to train personnel from police, fire services, and sanitation departments in rescue operations.

Majhi assured full government support to transform the Odisha Fire Department into a world-class disaster management force. Calling firefighters “the face of the government in times of danger,” he praised their contribution to saving lives and highlighted that the department is ranked among the top three in India for its performance.

At the convocation, 911 firefighters formally joined duty after completing training. The Chief Minister noted that 911 vacancies in the department had been filled in the past year, and recruitment for another 300 posts is underway and expected to conclude by December.

Reviewing departmental achievements, he shared that Odisha’s 346 fire stations responded to nearly 50,000 emergency calls in the last year, saving 7,599 lives and rescuing over 17,000 people.

To strengthen preparedness, Majhi directed the fire department to launch a statewide water safety awareness campaign, especially targeting school students through swimming lessons. He also emphasized the need for first-aid kits and modern stretchers in all fire stations to ensure timely response during the “golden hour.”

Highlighting the importance of continuous skill upgradation, the Chief Minister said firefighters and officers may be sent for advanced training outside the state and even abroad, to gain exposure to the latest firefighting and rescue techniques.