Odisha Govt to establish World-Class Simulator for Firefighters’ training: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Aug 23 (UNI) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today announced that the Odisha government will set up a world-class simulator to enhance the quality of training for firefighters.
Speaking at the 61st Firefighters’ Convocation Ceremony at the Baramunda Fire Training Centre, Majhi said the simulator will provide modern training facilities and enable firefighters to practice handling challenging situations.
The Chief Minister further informed that a National-level Water Efficiency and Life-saving Training Centre will soon become operational at Ramchandi, Konark, at an estimated cost of Rs.12 crore. In addition, a Scuba Diving Training Centre, costing Rs.10 crore, will also be established at the same location to train police, fire service, and sanitation personnel engaged in rescue operations.
Majhi assured that the state government will extend full support to make the Odisha Fire Department a world-class force in disaster management.
Describing firefighters as “the face of the government in times of danger,” Majhi said the Odisha Fire Department has earned national recognition and is ranked among the top three in terms of performance.
During the convocation, 911 firefighters participated in the passing-out parade and formally joined duty. Majhi said that in the past year, 911 vacant posts in the fire department have been filled, while recruitment for another 300 posts is underway and will be completed by December.

Highlighting the department’s achievements, the Chief Minister said that in the last year, Odisha’s 346 fire stations responded to nearly 50,000 emergency calls, saved 7,599 lives, and rescued 17,000 people, bringing recognition and appreciation to the state government.
He directed the department to launch a state-wide awareness campaign on water safety, especially among students, by promoting swimming lessons.

The Chief Minister also advised ensuring that all fire stations are equipped with first-aid kits and modern stretchers to save lives during the “golden hour.”
Majhi emphasized that firefighters and officers should, if necessary, be sent outside the state for advanced training at national and international levels to enhance their knowledge of firefighting and rescue operations.