Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 03 October 2023
In a move aimed at bolstering fire safety and emergency response capabilities within the community, the A&N Fire Service has introduced a new initiative called ‘Fire Mitra.’ This program seeks to harness the potential of community members to assist the Fire Service of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during fire and emergency situations.
With the goal of creating a more resilient and responsive approach to firefighting and disaster mitigation, the Fire Service is actively recruiting volunteers from the island’s residents. Given the seismic vulnerability of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in Seismic Zone-V, where earthquakes are a known threat, a standardised training module has been developed. Volunteers have been equipped with essential knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to immediate needs during fire incidents, disasters, or emergency situations.
As of the latest count, a total of 167 Fire Mitras have been identified and recruited under the ‘Fire Mitra’ program. These volunteers have undergone the ‘Fire Mitra Basic Training,’ conducted by Fire Service Officers. The training focuses on key areas, including survival strategies, search and rescue techniques, casualty handling, and assistance in firefighting operations.
The number of Fire Mitras enlisted with Fire Stations across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are as follows:
Aberdeen: 5 Fire Mitras
Garacharma: 10 Fire Mitras
Bambooflat: 15 Fire Mitras
Ferrarganj: 9 Fire Mitras
Shaheed Dweep: 5 Fire Mitras
Swaraj Dweep: 5 Fire Mitras
R.K. Pur: 10 Fire Mitras
Baratang: 8 Fire Mitras
Kadamtala: 4 Fire Mitras
Bakultala: 25 Fire Mitras
Rangat: 5 Fire Mitras
Billiground: 11 Fire Mitras
Mayabunder: 3 Fire Mitras
Diglipur: 6 Fire Mitras
Kalighat: 16 Fire Mitras
Car Nicobar: 17 Fire Mitras
Kamorta: 4 Fire Mitras
Teressa: 5 Fire Mitras
Campbell Bay: 4 Fire Mitras
The ‘Fire Mitra’ program represents a significant step toward enhancing the safety and resilience of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the face of fire and other emergencies. The active involvement of community volunteers in emergency response efforts is expected to contribute greatly to the region’s overall preparedness and response capabilities.