Odisha Fire Services to have 'Striking Fire Force', 144 posts to be created

The Odisha government on Monday approved setting up of ‘Striking Fire Force’ of the State Fire Services Department. The striking fire force can be deployed for prompt action in case of any emergency situation or disaster during fire mishaps.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday approved such proposal after a detailed presentation.

As per the plan, there will be three range headquarters of striking fire force in three zones- Cuttack, Sambalpur and Berhampur. A total of 144 posts, including assistant fire officer, station officer, assistant station officer, havildar major, driver havildar, havildar mechanical, leading fireman, fireman driver and fireman posts, will be created in this regard .

As many as 48 posts will be created for each range headquarters of the striking fire force. The objective is to ensure that the striking fire force of the Odisha Fire Services Department act as ‘first responder’ during natural or man-made disaster or accidents.

The striking fire force will also play a crucial role in relief and rescue operation. It is pertinent to mention here that the Odisha Fire Services personnel have executed and assisted several relief and rescue operations in many states during natural calamities and disasters. Their services have also been lauded several times in the past.