Staff Report
PESHAWAR: A comprehensive training programme on fire safety, first aid and emergency response has been launched to further strengthen and modernize the security framework of the Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
The initiative was discussed in detail during an important meeting held today under the chairmanship of Director Civil Defence Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zahid Usman Kakakhel. The meeting was attended by BRT Peshawar Security Manager, Lt. Col. (Retd.) Amir Khattak, along with other relevant officials.
During the meeting, it was agreed that the security personnel of BRT would be provided phased, hands-on training in line with international standards. The training will cover fire safety, evacuation drills, first aid, and the safe and effective use of firefighting equipment. The programme will be conducted under the supervision of experienced civil defence instructors.
The Peshawar BRT system currently comprises 18 main routes, 13 feeder routes, 31 modern stations and a fleet of 250 hybrid buses. It serves more than 300,000 passengers every day, nearly 30 percent of whom are women. Given the scale and sensitivity of this public transport network, participants of the meeting emphasized the importance of enhancing the professional skills of security staff to ensure a prompt, coordinated and safe response during any emergency situation.
Director Civil Defence Zahid Usman Kakakhel assured that the training will include specialized modules for dealing with fire-related incidents, emergency evacuation and first aid. He added that dedicated female instructors will also be engaged to train female security personnel, ensuring equal skill-building opportunities for all staff.
He said this training programme will not only enhance the professional capabilities of the security force but will also help create public awareness and strengthen overall preparedness to respond to emergencies.
Officials noted that this initiative will prove to be a milestone in modernizing the security and emergency management system of Peshawar BRT and will play a key role in improving passenger safety, confidence and convenience.
