No spot out of reach: Bikes and robots to ensure precision and speed

Equipped with lightweight robots in their backpacks and heavy bikes modified to aid in rescue and relief works, firefighters stationed in each of the 25 sectors of the Mahakumbh Mela venue would be required to respond to emergency situations within two to three minutes of them being reported, a senior fire officer said.

- Rajeev Mullick

PRAYAGRAJ:

As 400 million devotees are expected to take part in the spiritual grandeur of the upcoming mega religious fair, the venue of which is spread over 4,000 hectares, that will last for 45 days, ensuring their safety remains a top priority for authorities. With the potential risks posed by temporary structures, electrical setups, and cooking areas, the fire department has deployed modern technologies and a specialized team to safeguard the event from fire hazards.

One of them is motorcycles equipped with fire extinguishing cylinders and water pumps. They will be crucial for navigating the narrow lanes within the Kumbh area. If necessary, the pumps can draw water from the river to quickly douse the flames.

"There will be 80 firefighting motorbikes that will be fitted with water mist systems and compressed air and foam (CAF), 125 quick response vehicles (QRVs), 120 large size water tenders, six foam tenders to ensure the safety of millions of devotees and tourists," said Pramod Sharma, the chief fire officer of Maha Kumbh Mela. All these preparations were made under the supervision of director general (Fire) Avinash Chandra.

"In the case of an emergency, mid-size QRVs (four-wheelers) will be our first option. And if QRVs finds it difficult to reach a location, we will rush motorbikes fitted with water mist system there."