State to modernise Fire and Rescue Department

TPURAM: The Kerala Government plans to modernise its Fire and Rescue department by equipping it with most modern rescue apparatus at a total outlay of Rs 207 crores, State Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan told the Assembly Monday.

Replying to a calling attention to the necessity to modernise the fire and rescue department in view of problems now faced at times of calamities, he said modern equipment worth Rs.50 crore would be added to the department this year.

The government also plans to have a helicopter for rescue operation, he said. With the increase in high-rise buildings in the state, equipment like sky ladders would be purchased, he said.