Vijayawada: In the context of the recent fire accident in Anakapalle, Minister of Family and Disaster Management Vangalapudi Anitha expressed strong dissatisfaction with the operation of the fire department.
On Tuesday, the minister held a review meeting on fire department performance. In response to the ongoing complaints, she issued a harsh warning to senior officials and asked them to change their approach to serious situations.
Anitha announced the establishment of 22 new fire stations and added 122 firefighters (engines) to the department’s fleet. She stressed the government’s commitment to the welfare of firefighters, who risked responsibility.
Anitha said fire accidents in Anakapalle should not be repeated. She noted that of Anakapalle’s 45 firework units, only 25 have licenses and renewals. Officials failed to perform their duties, and huge corruption is said to be one of the reasons.
“Officers must take action. They must determine whether there are similar unlicensed fireworks units in the state and should take action against them. The fire department should issue NOCs in accordance with NBC rules. NOCs must be used in all apartments, schools, hospitals and industries.”
Anitha stressed that “NOCs should no longer be issued when self-advocacy is being made. Fire officials should conduct direct inspections and issue NOCs.” They should also regularly monitor apartments, schools, hospitals and industries. If there are buildings that violate the rules, action will be taken.
The minister said a committee should be established under the auspices of the fire department under the auspices of the villages and towns, and to be involved in fire fighting, income, police, labor, industry and other departments. They should hold review meetings at least every three months.
