PCMC Fire Department gets a tech upgrade with new DCP fire tender

Pimpri | In a significant step toward modernizing its emergency response capabilities, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has added a state-of-the-art Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) fire tender to its fleet. This highly specialized vehicle is designed to combat complex chemical, industrial, and electrical fires—situations where traditional water-based firefighting techniques prove ineffective or dangerous.

The need for such a vehicle became apparent following the 2021 industrial fire at a magnesium powder factory in Thergaon, where water couldn’t be used due to the reactive nature of the material. Back then, firefighters had to rely on sand and soil to contain the blaze. With the introduction of the DCP tender, the city is now better prepared to handle similar high-risk fire scenarios using modern techniques and materials.

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh underlined the significance of strengthening emergency services in fast-growing cities. He said, “Pimpri Chinchwad is a key industrial hub with a concentration of chemical and flammable material units. Traditional firefighting techniques often fall short in such cases. The addition of the DCP fire tender is a strategic move that will significantly boost our response efficiency and public safety.”

PCMC Additional Commissioner, Pradip Jambhale Patil said,“In a rapidly urbanising and industrialising city like Pimpri Chinchwad, upgrading our firefighting systems is essential. This DCP fire tender is a critical investment in public safety and disaster preparedness. We are building a fire department that’s ready for the complexities of tomorrow.”

The newly commissioned vehicle contains two separate high-pressure vessels—one storing TEC powder and the other ABC powder. These can be deployed simultaneously, depending on the fire type. This dual-agent system enhances the vehicle’s effectiveness in locations such as electrical panels, petroleum units, gas cylinders, chemical plants, and industrial tanks. The DCP extinguishing method works by interrupting the chemical reactions that fuel the fire, making it a safer and more efficient solution, especially in sensitive environments.

“With this new DCP fire tender, our department is better equipped than ever. The combination of trained personnel, advanced design, and multi-type fire handling capacity makes this a game changer for our firefighting efforts. We remain committed to expanding this fleet in the coming years with the Corporation’s continued support,” said Umesh Dhakane, Assistant Commissioner, Fire Department, PCMC.

Key Features of the DCP Fire Tender:

Equipped with two independent pressure vessels for storing TEC and ABC powders

Capable of deploying both powders simultaneously depending on the fire type

Ideal for use in high-risk zones such as fuel depots, chemical plants, and electrical installations

Enables faster fire suppression with minimal manpower

Includes advanced equipment such as high-pressure nozzles, tower lighting, surveillance cameras, and quick-response systems

Designed for Indian roads with an ultra-mobile, heavy-duty body