18 April,2026 06:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
In a competition, the Fort Fire Station team was declared the overall best performer. Pic/BMC
As part of the Mumbai Fire Service Week 2026, the Mumbai Fire Brigade officials showcased their skills with breathtaking drills in city as the BMC announced its plans for modern upgrades of emergency services.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said it will focus on improving both the capacity and quality of infrastructure of the Mumbai Fire Brigade.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde made the announcement while addressing the annual fire drill competition and prize distribution ceremony.
The final round of the Annual Fire Drill Competition 2026 was held at the Fire Brigade headquarters in Byculla area in central Mumbai.
Senior officials, including Maharashtra Fire Services Director Santosh Warik and Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, were present at the event.
At the start of the programme, the Mayor paid tribute to the 66 fire personnel who lost their lives during the Bombay Dock Explosion.
Floral tributes were offered at the memorial, followed by a ceremonial salute by fire brigade personnel.
The Mayor said the Mumbai Fire Brigade is among the best in the world and continues to adapt to modern challenges such as high-rise buildings, narrow roads, and fire hazards.
She highlighted the use of advanced technology and increased focus on fire prevention and public awareness.
The Mayor urged citizens to take responsibility for fire safety by conducting fire audits, checking gas leaks, and following safety rules.
She stressed that preventing fires is as important as responding to them.
Under the Development Plan 2034, the BMC plans to set up new fire stations and further strengthen infrastructure and equipment.
Awareness initiatives such as fire rallies are also being organised to educate the public.
In the competition, the Fort Fire Station team was declared the overall best performer.
Fireman Nitin Tukaram Jadhav was awarded as the best fireman.
Teams from Mulund, BKC, Memonwada, Kurla, and other stations secured top positions in various categories, including pump drills and ladder operations.
Officials said the annual competition, held since 1948, tests the physical fitness, teamwork, and readiness of fire personnel.
The drills include ladder climbing, hose handling, rescue operations, and coordination exercises, helping teams stay prepared for emergencies.
