Odisha becomes first state to introduce K9 squad in Fire Services

Bhubaneswar, Dec 28: Odisha has become the first state in India to establish a dedicated K9 squad within its Fire Services department, featuring 10 specially trained dogs. These dogs will significantly enhance the capabilities of Fire Services personnel during rescue operations.

The newly formed K9 squad includes 10 dogs, comprising three Belgian Malinois and seven Labrador Retrievers, which were sourced from Rajasthan's Dora. These dogs have undergone rigorous training to assist in rescue missions, particularly in locating people trapped under rubble following disasters such as earthquakes and landslides.

The dogs' performance will be recognized with ranks, promotions, and medals, acknowledging their vital contribution to rescue efforts. Satyapir Behera, Fire Officer at the Principal Training Centre in Naraj, explained that the need for a dog squad became evident during the Bahanaga train tragedy, where dogs played a crucial role in the search and rescue operations.

With government approval, the dogs have now been fully trained and will be deployed in various disaster response efforts.