Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday, while unveiling the restored `Turn Table Ladder` vehicle by the Mumbai Fire Brigade, emphasised the importance of preserving and conserving the historical equipment and tools of the Mumbai Fire Brigade. The Chief Minister also stated that such heritage assets reflect the legacy of public service and sacrifice in the city.
While speaking at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters on the occasion of Republic Day on Monday. CM Fadnavis unveiled the historic firefighting vehicle known as ‘Turn Table Ladder’, manufactured in 1937. This vehicle has been restored by the Mumbai Fire Brigade and formally reintroduced as a heritage exhibit.
History of MFB’s ‘Turntable Ladder’
As per the BMC, the ‘Turn Table Ladder’ played a key role in emergency operations during the devastating fire on the cargo ship S.S. Fort Stikine at Mumbai Port in April 1944. The fire on the cargo ship is still one of the most significant disasters in the city’s maritime history. The iconic vehicle was used by fire brigade personnel in rescue operations that helped save several lives.
While addressing the gathering in Mumbai, CM Fadnavis said the Mumbai Fire Brigade has consistently served the city with dedication and courage, with its personnel often risking their lives to protect citizens.
Fadnavis further noted that preserving the Mumbai Fire Brigade’s historical equipment is essential to safeguarding its institutional memory and legacy. He also suggested that a museum could be created to conserve and showcase such heritage tools and vehicles.
Restoration of heritage firefighting vehicle
The restoration of the ‘Turn Table Ladder’ was undertaken following a proposal by BMC Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani, with support from industrialist Gautam Singhania.
Along with the Chief Minister, several senior officials and dignitaries were also present at the ceremony, including Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Dr Avinash Dhakane, Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, Padma Shri awardee Armida Fernandez, and other senior BMC and Mumbai Fire Brigade officials.
CM Fadnavis felicitated Armida Fernandez
On the occasion, Armida Fernandez, who was recently conferred the Padma Shri for her contribution to the healthcare sector, was also felicitated by the Chief Minister.
The BMC, while issuing the official statement, said that the restored vehicle will now be preserved as part of Mumbai Fire Brigade’s historical legacy, highlighting the evolution of firefighting services in the city and their role in major rescue operations over the decades.