THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Fire Force's plan to purchase three state-of-the-art vehicles with Skylifts for the cities of Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode to reach out to fires in multi-storey buildings is being dragged on. During the last government, the process of inviting global tenders was started but was abruptly abandoned due to Covid. This year it has been included in the annual plan again. The tender process can start only after getting the approval of the working group. Though it was decided to convene the working group meeting on May 15, it did not happen.

Skylift is an armoured vehicle with an aerial ladder and lift system with a platform that can reach up to the top of a 20 storey building. The three vehicles are expected to cost Rs 50 crore.

Currently, the fire force does not have a modern system of rescue for hazards above three storeys. The only option is a ladder that can barely reach a height of 35 meters.

Skylift vehicle advantages

State-of-the-art rescue equipment

Hydraulic lift to lift people trapped in tall buildings

Oxygen facility, water pumping system up to a height of 60 m

Hydraulic jack to rescue occupants of buildings