STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The government has undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen the operational capacity of the Fire Service and Civil Defence, including the construction and reconstruction of 20 fire stations and the procurement of 100 ambulances.

It is also considering a proposal to expand the agency’s workforce to 30,000 personnel, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said yesterday while speaking as the chief guest at a programme marking Fire Service and Civil Defence Week-2026 at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Multipurpose Training Ground in Purbachal.

This year, Fire Service Week-2026 is being observed with the theme: “Firefighters’ sole vow: We will keep life and property safe.” A three-day nationwide awareness programme is also being held to mark the week.

“We are undertaking numerous initiatives for the overall development of the fire service,” he said, adding that the construction and reconstruction of 20 fire stations are currently underway across the country to improve emergency response services.

“The procurement of 100 ambulances is also underway to expand services.”

Salahuddin noted that while 538 fire stations are currently operational, the number remains inadequate given the country’s population and rapid urbanisation.