The Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) has made significant progress in implementing the BNP government’s electoral pledges during its first six months, according to a progress report on the government’s 180-day action plan.
Several initiatives aimed at strengthening emergency response, expanding fire and rescue infrastructure and improving disaster services have moved forward, with some nearing completion.
Under the pledge to establish a Civil Defence and Emergency Response Control Centre, the project document has been prepared and sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs. The process of creating manpower posts for the Emergency Response Control Centre (ERCC) has also been completed.
The initiative achieved 80 percent progress by August 6, with the remaining work expected to be completed after issuance of the necessary government order.
The initiative to create 92 posts for seven new fire service units under the “Expansion of Fire Service and Civil Defence Unit (1st Revised)” project recorded 70 percent progress. A proposal for creating 72 posts is currently under consideration by the Cabinet Division.
The remaining work is expected to be completed after Cabinet Division approval and issuance of the government order.
100 ambulances planned
The government is also expanding ambulance services to improve emergency response during natural and man-made disasters.
Under the “Expansion of Ambulance Services of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate (Phase-II, 1st Revised)” project, the first phase involves procuring 50 ambulances.
The initiative had achieved 20 percent progress by August 6. A tender for 50 ambulances was invited and opened on April 23, but the Tender Evaluation Committee found the submitted documents inadequate and decided on July 19 to invite the tender again.
The Fire Service has now initiated the procurement of 100 ambulances during the 2026-27 fiscal year, comprising the re-tendering of 50 ambulances and an additional 50.
The department expects to complete procurement of all 100 ambulances within the fiscal year.
The progress report said these initiatives are part of the government’s efforts to fulfil its electoral commitments within the first 180 days by strengthening emergency response capacity, expanding fire and rescue services and ensuring faster assistance to people during disasters and accidents.
