Mandya district intensifies preparedness to tackle fire emergencies

Mandya: With summer approaching and temperatures set to soar, the Mandya district administration has stepped up preparedness to tackle fire emergencies by strengthening infrastructure and response systems across urban and rural areas.The fire and emergency services department has inducted new fire engines equipped with modern firefighting systems, higher water storage capacity and advanced rescue tools to enhance operational efficiency. Fire stations across all taluks have been placed on high alert, while personnel are conducting regular mock drills and public awareness programmes ahead of the peak summer season.
District fire officer B M Raghavendra told TOI the department conducted over 440 fire safety demonstrations last year at schools, colleges, institutions and public places to spread awareness on preventive measures. "We received 109 rescue calls and saved 29 human lives and over 10 animals through timely intervention," he said. The district has responded to 756 fire calls in addition to rescue operations, saving property worth more than Rs 14.8 crore.At present, each taluk has been equipped with two well-maintained fire engines to ensure prompt response. Three additional engines are expected soon, and will be deployed to Srirangapatana, Mandya and Maddur taluks to further strengthen capacity.The department has also proposed setting up four new fire stations at Bellur Cross in Nagamangala taluk, Koppa and KM Doddi in Maddur taluk, and Chinkurli in Pandavapura taluk. Once approved, these stations are expected to significantly reduce response time in vulnerable areas.Among the seven taluks in the district, Malavalli, KR Pete, Pandavapura and Mandya are considered most sensitive during summer due to frequent wildfire incidents.