Delhi Fire Service (DFS) is planning to procure an all-terrain firefighting vehicle (ATFFV) with a compressed air foam system (CAFS) to ensure it can smoothly carry out operations in congested city lanes.
The vehicle will be equipped with firefighting equipment, including water tanks, hoses and pumps, enabling officers to respond swiftly to blazes, an official said, adding, “This rapid response is crucial in preventing the spread of fire, especially during the initial stages.”
Using the vehicles with fluorine-free foam will also provide opportunities for specialised training for firefighters, he said. “Fluorine-free foam has an effective firefighting performance. It can rapidly extinguish fires, suppress flammable liquid fires and prevent reignition, making it a reliable alternative to traditional foams,” the officer added.
Delhi Fire Service (DFS) director Atul Garg told TOI that in most major fire-related incidents, officers often encountered congested areas, hampering firefighting efforts. “Moving or maneuvering fire tenders in those areas was difficult, resulting in significant time loss. We sought a solution that would allow us to reach congested areas quickly and begin operations promptly. That is why we are planning to procure all-terrain vehicles,” he said.
Garg said they have approached a Mumbai-based firm and, based on their firefighting requirements, could request specific modifications to the vehicles. With an ability to maneuver fast to ensure quick response, the vehicles will be capable of extinguishing different categories of fires.
The officer added that an ATFFV-CAFS has a discharge distance of up to 45 feet, allowing for a safe distance between the system operator and the fire, and 75 feet of hose that enables the user to reach a blaze within 100 feet of the unit in any direction. The distance also gives the operator and the firemen safety from radiation heat and toxic gases.
“The vehicle is safer for firefighters and first responders. It eliminates exposure to potentially toxic fluorinated chemicals, reducing the risk of health issues associated with per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure. It is also biodegradable and Green Shield Certified,” the officer said, adding that the vehicle’s cooling effect helps douse the fire in the minimum possible time.
Several tests will be conducted, after which it will be decided how many vehicles will be procured, the officer said.
DFS data shows till October this year, it received over 12,500 calls related to fires, in which 48 people died. The fire department also rescued more than 500 people in various fire incidents.
