In a strong push to enhance fire safety education and emergency preparedness, the Fire Awareness and Safety Association (FASA) on Sunday organized a special event to mark ‘Fire Awareness Week’ at the Sector 32 Fire Station. The program witnessed the participation of civic leaders, fire officials, educators, and members of the public, all united in their appreciation for the tireless services of the city’s fire personnel.
Chandigarh’s former Mayor Davesh Moudgil, the chief guest on the occasion, honoured the fire officers and firefighters for their courageous and round-the-clock service to the city. Commending their bravery and commitment, he called for systemic improvements in fire and emergency services.
Moudgil emphasized the need to bring fire and emergency services under the Disaster Management Department for better coordination and response. “It’s time we introduce fire safety and disaster preparedness as a formal subject in school and college curriculums,” he said, adding, “In emergencies, immediate response by those on-site can save lives before help arrives.”
He further promised to advocate for the establishment of a dedicated ‘Fire Academy’ in Chandigarh, improved housing for firefighters, procurement of modern firefighting equipment, and steps to address manpower shortages in the department.
Guest of Honour DP Singh, head of Tera Hi Tera Mission, lauded the dedication and sacrifice of fire officials, describing them as “unsung heroes who face danger daily to protect others”.
FASA founder president Jasjyot Singh Almast underscored the importance of skill-building among youth. “Basic fire safety training should be made mandatory in schools and colleges. An aware and prepared citizen can make all the difference in critical situations,” he said.
Also present were FASA chairman Surinder Bahga, Jasjeet Suri of Chitkara School of Marine Studies, Yogesh Bulandi of Proxvel Fire Systems, and community leaders including Shikha Nijhawan, Lovleen Kaur, Nitesh Mahajan, and others. The event ended with a renewed commitment to building a fire-safe Chandigarh through education, awareness, and policy reforms.