State fire service inducts hazmat vehicle for better disaster response

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha fire and emergency service (OFES) wing is all set to strengthen its disaster response capabilities with the induction of a specialised hazardous material (Hazmat) vehicle. The advanced unit will be deployed to tackle chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) emergencies in the state.

OFES director-general Sudhansu Sarangi described the Hazmat vehicle as a force multiplier, equipped with sensors to detect and identify chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear threats.


“It will also carry monitoring equipment to assess accidental or deliberate release of hazardous gases and substances, enabling responders/rescuers to evaluate the scale of danger quickly,” Sarangi told TOI.

According to inspector-general of police (OFES) Uma Shankar Dash, the vehicle can transport rescuers directly to the source of a leak, even in areas inaccessible on foot, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

The Hazmat vehicle comes with integrated software that allows operators to analyse live data and share it with both the onboard console and the command centre.

“Designed to withstand extreme disaster events, the vehicle is capable of combating biological, chemical and nuclear threats. Its advanced antennas provide rapid assessment of the nature and severity of emergencies, ensuring timely intervention,” DG Sarangi said.

In preparation, fire service personnel are undergoing intensive training in emergency response techniques to ensure swift and effective action during potential hazards.

Officials emphasised that modern emergencies are increasingly complex due to urban growth, industrial expansion and climate change, requiring specialised expertise. To meet these challenges, OFES has collaborated with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to train personnel in 12 specialised domains. These include urban search and rescue, structural collapse response, CBRN handling, building intervention techniques, K9 squad operations and medical response.

DG Sarangi highlighted the importance of specialisation, noting that personnel must now be prepared to conduct rescues during natural disasters, chemical accidents and human-induced catastrophes. Staff are being trained to operate sophisticated firefighting equipment, manage chemical spillages and respond to radiation incidents. “Personnel must acquire precise techniques for managing hazardous scenarios with coordinated movements,” Sarangi said.