Rescue / Odisha Fire Services Rescue Devotee With Breathing Difficulties at Saheed Nagar Durga Puja Pandal

Bhubaneswar, Oct 20: Odisha Fire Services personnel rescued a devotee who experienced breathing difficulties amid heavy crowds at the Saheed Nagar Durga Puja pandal in Bhubaneswar on Monday night.

The devotee, identified as Purna Chandra Panda, reportedly fell seriously ill and struggled to breathe amid the rush. Fire Services personnel deployed at the pandal promptly intervened and administered first aid, including oxygen support.

Timely Medical Assistance
Following the initial treatment, Panda reportedly felt better and was shifted to a hospital for further medical attention. According to the information available, he is now in stable condition.

The prompt response by Fire Services personnel helped ensure that he received medical assistance without further delay.

The incident highlights the importance of emergency response arrangements at crowded Durga Puja pandals, particularly during peak visiting hours.

Also Read: Odisha CM to Skip Durga Puja Pandal Visits Amid Flood Distress

Odisha Fire Services Rescue 2,729 People
Meanwhile, Odisha Fire Services rescued 2,729 people in water-related emergencies between 2023 and September 2026, according to data released by the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services.

During the period, the department received 6,478 emergency calls related to drowning incidents and carried out rescue operations. The data also recorded 3,684 deaths.

In 2023, the department received 1,410 calls, rescued 660 people and recorded 714 deaths. In 2024, it received 1,296 calls, rescued 859 people and recorded 778 deaths.

In 2025, the department received 2,356 calls, rescued 805 people and recorded 1,346 deaths.

Between January and September 2026, Odisha Fire Services received 1,416 calls, rescued 405 people and recorded 846 deaths.