The Times of India 06.11.2009
Soon, MC firemen to be under insurance cover
CHANDIGARH: Dousing the raging concern of 220 firemen working in municipal corporation who risk their life and limb to save others, UT
administration has finally approved the proposal of providing them an insurance cover.
The civic body has reportedly received a list of premiums from five insurance companies, out of which one would be selected soon.
There are 220 firefighters in the MC wing who are always on the job. Of these, families of around 70 reside in seven stations of the city.
”The matter got delayed as earlier the companies had offered cover for only eight hours, saying this was the job span of the firemen. However, MC rejected this argument, saying these brave men were always on duty as they had to respond to emergency calls and operations. So, a 24-hour cover was sought,” an MC official said.
Agreeing to the terms, five firms have shown interest in insuring the MC employees. “We are scrutinizing the policies. The company seeking the lowest premium, extending full risk cover and having the best offer will be selected,” the official added.
The lack of risk blanket was felt strongly when a city fireman, Amarjit Singh, lost his life while putting off a blaze in Sector 22 around one year ago. With no insurance offered, his family members continue to fight for compensation.
Following the incident, nominated councillor Brig (retd) Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri raised the issue in MC. The agenda received a unanimous nod during house meeting.
The civic body has reportedly received a list of premiums from five insurance companies, out of which one would be selected soon.
There are 220 firefighters in the MC wing who are always on the job. Of these, families of around 70 reside in seven stations of the city.
”The matter got delayed as earlier the companies had offered cover for only eight hours, saying this was the job span of the firemen. However, MC rejected this argument, saying these brave men were always on duty as they had to respond to emergency calls and operations. So, a 24-hour cover was sought,” an MC official said.
Agreeing to the terms, five firms have shown interest in insuring the MC employees. “We are scrutinizing the policies. The company seeking the lowest premium, extending full risk cover and having the best offer will be selected,” the official added.
The lack of risk blanket was felt strongly when a city fireman, Amarjit Singh, lost his life while putting off a blaze in Sector 22 around one year ago. With no insurance offered, his family members continue to fight for compensation.
Following the incident, nominated councillor Brig (retd) Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri raised the issue in MC. The agenda received a unanimous nod during house meeting.
