T.N. government opts for direct recruitment to address shortage of fireman drivers

In order to solve the problem of firefighter driver shortage across the state, the Tamil Nadu government has decided to bring them directly into the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services (TNFRS) Department by changing the relevant rules. The post, which is vital in the operation of fire-fighting equipment, was previously filled only by promotion of service personnel.

Now the method of appointment to the post of firefighter driver will also be through direct recruitment through the Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board. Under the amendment, the position will be filled by (1) direct recruitment and (2) promotion from Class II Category 3. “The ratio between direct recruitment and promotion will be 4:1,” said a GO issued in this regard.

TNFRS has approximately 8,100 officers and staff operating in 384 stations statewide, and approximately 980 different fire and rescue vehicles operate throughout the state. The deployment of fire trucks when a distress call is received depends largely on the availability of qualified drivers and their operational proficiency.

“At the scene, drivers are responsible for operating the pump and maintaining the correct pressure to effectively deliver water or foam to the branch to extinguish the fire. They are also responsible for the care and maintenance of the vehicles,” GO said. Previously, a firefighter had to complete three years of service before being promoted to firefighter driver. The state government’s decision is expected to solve the problem of shortage of personnel carrying out this duty in the agency.

In 2025, the department received a total of 23,043 ‘fire calls’ and saved 93 human lives and property worth ₹691 crore. In the same year, it received 1,54,634 ‘rescue calls’, saving 3,214 human lives and more than 95,359 animals.