Srinagar, August 15: Fire & Emergency Services, Jammu and Kashmir, responded to 5,681 fire calls, 58 rescue calls and 64 false calls during the period from August 2025 to July 2026, saving property worth approximately Rs 4,562.97 crore.
Director General F&ES, Alok Kumar (IPS) while addressing the Independence Day celebrations here at the Headquarters, highlighted its emergency-response, fire-prevention and public-awareness initiatives undertaken during the past year, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property across the Union Territory.
During the period, he said the property losses were contained to around Rs 303.49 crore through timely and coordinated firefighting and rescue operations. The department also recorded an approximately 14 per cent decline in the number of fire calls compared to the corresponding period of the previous year.
Alok Kumar attributed the reduction to sustained fire-prevention measures and public-awareness campaigns, while stressing that the department’s mandate extends beyond firefighting to include saving lives, protecting property and providing prompt rescue and relief during fires, floods, accidents and other emergencies.
As part of a preventive approach, the DG F&ES said the department has been promoting the concept of “Har Ghar Firefighter”, aimed at ensuring that at least one member of every household possesses basic knowledge of how to respond safely during the initial stages of a fire.
Under the initiative, 10,794 fire-safety awareness programmes have so far been conducted across J&K, reaching more than 11.5 lakh people, including students, healthcare workers and members of the general public.
“The department has also intensified inspections and preventive measures. Around 7,422 fire-safety audits were conducted during the current year at hospitals, hotels, educational institutions and commercial establishments. The audits are intended not only to ensure compliance with prescribed safety norms but also to promote a sustained culture of fire prevention and preparedness,” he said.
He said the special arrangements were also made during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, adding the department established 33 temporary fire stations along the Baltal and Pahalgam routes to strengthen emergency response and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Alok Kumar added that continuous efforts are being made to modernise its functioning through improved equipment, effective communication systems, specialised training and enhanced professional competence.
On Independence Day, the DG F&ES paid tribute to firefighters, who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty and commended its officers and officials for their dedication and discipline in responding to emergencies.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to strengthening public awareness on fire safety and disaster preparedness, upgrading professional capabilities through modern technology and training, and contributing towards a safer, stronger and more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
