Telangana Director General of Fire and Disaster Response Vikram Singh Mann has honoured 63 fire department personnel for their role in a night rescue operation at Bethupalli Lake in Sathupalli, conducted a week ago under hazardous conditions.
Mann invited the personnel to his office and presented them with cash rewards and appreciation letters, recognising what the department described as their courage, dedication and commitment to saving lives. The felicitation was held on Wednesday, according to a report by Deccan Chronicle.
The operation at Bethupalli Lake required the fire personnel to work during the night and in conditions described by the department as extremely hazardous. The report did not provide details of the incident that led to the rescue or specify how many people were saved.
Mann praised the team’s professionalism, coordination and dedication to public service. He also assured the personnel that their recommendation rolls would be sent to the government for appropriate rewards in recognition of their contribution.
The recognition places attention on the role of fire and disaster-response departments in handling emergencies around water bodies, where darkness and difficult operating conditions can increase risks for both civilians and rescuers. The department did not announce any changes to its equipment, staffing or operating procedures after the Bethupalli operation.
Senior officers who attended the felicitation also praised the personnel for their teamwork and courage. Mann advised fire department personnel across Telangana to remain alert, exercise caution and follow safety precautions strictly while undertaking rescue missions in challenging and potentially life-threatening situations.
The next formal step identified by the department is the submission of the recommendation rolls to the government for consideration of further rewards for the 63 personnel.
