Date:01/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/12/01/stories/2005120103360200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

`Agni' motorcycles steal the show

Staff Reporter

Civil defence personnel observe Disaster Reduction Day

BANGALORE: Thrilling performances of fire fighting and disaster rescue mock drills by the civil defence personnel marked the observance of National Disaster Reduction Day here on Wednesday.

The Directorate of Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services and Home Guards exhibited before the public and Governor T.N. Chaturvedi that it was equipped to handle various natural and man-made disasters.

One of the drills included a bomb explosion in a busy market place in which the bomb went off even after search by the police personnel. While the rescue personnel immediately swung into action to contain the loss of life and property, those participating as public in the drill exhibited how public should react in such an eventuality.

Agni-1 and Agni-2, the new entrant motorcycles equipped for fire fighting to the Fire Force, stole the show with their superb manoeuvrability.

Meant for congested city locations, "Agni" vehicles will be deployed in all district headquarters by the Directorate. Jeeps fitted with fire fighting extinguishers took part in the drill. While Agni series can carry 50 litres of extinguishers, jeeps can carry 200 litres.

Mr. Chaturvedi, who inaugurated the programme, stressed the need for active public cooperation with the forces in managing disasters. Equally important is the creation of awareness among the public as well as school children, he said.