Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday stressed the need for preventive fire audits in all higher education institutions, particularly those with large auditoriums, to strengthen safety and disaster preparedness.
The Governor’s remarks came during a detailed presentation on Disaster Preparedness and Response by the Fire and Emergency Services Department at Raj Bhavan.
Highlighting the importance of fire audits, Governor Kambhampati said such inspections help identify risks early, ensure corrective measures, and enhance safe evacuation routes. “Addressing these risks in advance ensures safer evacuation routes, reduces the likelihood of injuries or fatalities, minimises property damage, and fosters a culture of safety among staff and students,” he said.
During the presentation, officials showcased the department’s advanced equipment, including Robotic Monitors, Advanced Rescue Tenders, Incident Command Vehicles, Hydraulic Platforms, and other modern machinery. The Governor also enquired about the procurement of additional equipment and upcoming upgrades.
The Fire Services officials briefed him on initiatives such as the National Water Rescue and Watermanship Centre at Ramchandi, Puri, and the deployment of the K-9 Squad, which made Odisha the first state in the country to have such a unit.
Governor Kambhampati appreciated the department’s efficiency and innovations, including online fire licensing processes, third-party audits, and overall preparedness that has positioned Odisha as a model state in disaster management.
He also inspected the Command Vehicle, observing its advanced features.
The meeting was attended by DG Fire Services, Home Guards and Civil Defense Director Sudhanshu Sarangi, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor Roopa Roshan Sahoo, DIG Fire & Emergency Services & Home Guards Umashankar Dash, and other senior officials.
