Mumbai’s Fire Brigade is set to induct a 104-metre ‘turn table ladder’ into its fleet after nearly a decade, significantly boosting its ability to tackle fires in high-rise buildings across the city.
The advanced ladder system will enable firefighters to directly reach and control fires up to nearly the 34th floor of skyscrapers. At present, the fire brigade operates turn table ladders of 32 metres, 40 metres, 55 metres, 64 metres and 90 metres in height.
However, officials said the existing 90-metre ladder has frequently developed technical faults, creating operational difficulties during firefighting and rescue missions in tall buildings. To address the issue, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated the tender process last year to procure two new 104-metre turn table ladders.
The procurement process has now reached the final stage, and the new state-of-the-art ladders are expected to be added to the fire brigade fleet soon.
Currently, the 64-metre ladder can reach up to around the 21st floor, while the 68-metre ladder can access buildings up to the 23rd to 25th floors. Officials said the new 104-metre ladder will allow firefighters to reach up to the 34th floor more efficiently for firefighting, rescue operations and evacuation of residents during emergencies.
According to fire brigade officials, the induction of the new ladders will strengthen Mumbai’s emergency response infrastructure, particularly at a time when the number of high-rise residential and commercial buildings in the city continues to increase.
Also Read: Good News, Mumbaikars! Mrinaltai Gore Flyover Extension To Finally Open On May 31