'Seventh grader a fire officer': RTI reveals shocking details of educational qualification of Moghalpura Fire Station officers

Hyderabad: In a Right to Information (RTI) response by the Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services department, surprising details have emerged about the educational qualifications of officers at the Moghalpura Fire Station in Hyderabad.

The RTI, filed by activist M.A. Akram, revealed that the Station Fire Officer, G. Venkateswar Rao is only a 7th-grade pass, while leading firemen Syed Mohsin Hasan and K. Pentaih have completed just 10th grade. Of the 17 staff members, only a few hold a degree.

Akram expressed concerns over the qualifications of these officers, especially since a degree is a basic requirement for fire officers in the department. He noted that the officers were promoted based on seniority under a government order issued by the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh government, allowing promotions without a degree.

The duties of a fire station officer include---

1. Controlling officer in the jurisdiction of the Fire station, Supervision of the Fire ground.

2. Prompt response to fire calls and other emergencies like floods, earth quakes.

3. To issue a no-objection certificate for a temporary fire crackers shop.

4. Basic fire prevention training for security personnel at fire-hazardous places.

5. Creation of public awareness on fire prevention for various sections of society.

6. Assistance and advice on conducting Fire Drills.

7. To provide awareness in public about the Fire Safety measures.

8. To provide standby fire-safety arrangements at large gatherings by charging a nominal amount.

"A station officer is responsible for writing daily reports. But how can someone with a 7th-grade education draft these? Additionally, a 7th-pass officer is issuing No Objection Certificates to schools, hospitals, and other establishments. They appoint an operator to draft copies and he just signs," Akram said.

He criticized the government for prioritizing seniority over qualifications, even when more educated candidates are available.

The Moghalpura Fire Station building, constructed in 1963, has undergone routine maintenance but now raises concerns about its structural integrity. Cracks in the walls and deteriorating mortar have prompted officials to consider significant repairs or even reconstruction in the future.