With a long dry spell and scanty rainfall, the approaching summer season poses a major challenge for the fire department in Kangra. Responsible for managing fire emergencies across the district, the Dharamsala-based team has completed all necessary preparations. This includes maintenance of equipment and readiness of personnel. Holidays for staff have been suspended from April 15, and all employees have been placed on high alert.
Karam Chand, Station Fire Officer of Kangra at Dharamsala, expressed concern over the lack of rainfall and reduced snow on the mountains. Speaking to The Tribune, he emphasised the challenge posed by the drying up of rivulets, which are crucial water sources during fire emergencies. The department has conducted repair and maintenance of vehicles and equipment in advance.
To enhance preparedness, the fire department is actively coordinating with schools, colleges, and local villagers, spreading awareness about fire prevention and control. Coordination with forest guards has also been strengthened, with contact information exchanged to ensure prompt response. Fire personnel typically operate within a 1 km radius from the road, and a quick response vehicle is available for narrow lanes where larger vehicles cannot reach.
Kangra district has one main fire station at Dharamsala, four sub-stations at Palampur, Dheera, Kangra, and Shahpur, along with 11 chowkis. A staff of 160 personnel is currently in place. The district is equipped with six combined foam CO2 tenders, primarily used for VVIP events and helicopter landings.
In terms of vehicles, there are four fire brigades each at Dharamsala, Kangra, and Palampur; two each at Nurpur, Jawali, Sansarpur Terrace, Jawalamukhi, Dehra, Dadasibha, Jaisinghpur, Baijnath, Shahpur, Nagrota Bagwan, and Dheera; and one at Indora.
At the district headquarters in Dharamsala, the fire department has four vehicles and 24 hydrants located at vulnerable spots such as Khara Danga, Kotwali Bazar, and the Circuit House. However, the department’s lone motorcycle equipped with a fire extinguisher remains non-functional.
