Fire brigade to go high-tech

As part of its ambitious project,the fire brigade will launch a satellite communication system known as the Terrestrial Trunk Radio Access system (TETRA) and an analogue communication radio system called the MPT1327. “We’re working hard to bring our fire brigade at par with that of other nations. The top priority is to upgrade the communication system,which is most essential during any disaster,” said Additional Municipal Commissioner Kishore Gajbhiye.

According to the fire officials,the TETRA communication system will help them carry out smooth communication during any kind of emergency. “The TETRA system will be based on satellite communication,hence no matter what kind of disaster we have,communication will not take a beating,” said Gajbhiye. “Usually during emergency situations like major fire or flooding,the mobile lines and landline take a beating and communicating with each other becomes tough. This system will only ensure bigger disasters,” said a senior fire official.

The system will work in two-way. There will be a base station at the BMC headquarters which will be connected to all the 24 ward offices. The fire brigade will be connected to this centre. “If any disaster happens,all the ward offices,fire brigade and the headquarters will get the signal. The high-speed communication will reduce the response time while dealing with any disaster,” said the fire official.

According to civic officials,the Expressions of Interest (EOI) for attracting tenders for the TETRA communication has already been sent out. “The response has been overwhelming. So far 12 companies have expressed their interest in this project. Some companies are from countries like Singapore,Finland and the US,” said Gajbhiye.

Keeping in mind the vertical development that the city is facing,fire officials state that it brings in unique problems while dealing with disasters. “Many a times while we are operating in high-rises,communication can happen at only one specific spot. If we change our position even a bit,contact with other members goes for a toss,” said wireless in-charge officer Nitin Raut. To save time and energy in such a situation,the analogue communication system has been launched,he said.

According to him,the system will work through a repeater system to curb any kind of failure. “The system will ensure reliable outdoor coverage as well as inbuilding coverage. Inbuilding means in the centre of any disaster spot,” Raut said. The analogue system will connect extreme ends of the city like Dahisar,Gavanpada,Mulund and Borivili with each other. The fire brigade expects to implement the two new systems by the end of February.

Added to these systems,the BMC is all set to refurbish their existing radio trunking system. “When we visited our fire brigades,we found that most of our systems including radios,walkie-talkies and other essential equipments were in a shoddy condition. Hence,we will undertake a detailed refurbishment of it. Moreover,we will also work on providing our fire men with personal protective equipment,” said Gajbhiye. The BMC will be spending Rs 10 crore to refurbish the old system and an additional Rs 20 crore to buy personal protective equipment.