Fire Department of Pará celebrates 143 years with the delivery of vehicles and recognition of COP 30 military personnel
The ceremony in Belém marked investments from the State Government and tributes to professionals who worked in the restricted area of the climate conference
The Government of Pará celebrated, this Monday (24), the 143 years of the Military Fire Department of the State (CBMPA) with a special ceremony held at the headquarters of the corporation, on Avenida Júlio César, in Belém. The event was attended by Governor Helder Barbalho, Lieutenant Governor Hana Ghassan, the commander-general of CBMPA, Colonel Jaime Benjó, as well as civil and military authorities.
During the ceremony, the governor highlighted the importance of the corporation for the safety of the population and for environmental protection.
“Today we are celebrating the 143 years of a fantastic institution that saves lives, fights fires, and contributes decisively to the preservation of our forest,” said Helder Barbalho. “The Fire Department plays a fundamental role in the safety of our population and in the protection of the environment.”
Delivery of new vehicles for combating forest fires
One of the highlights of the program was the delivery of seven vehicles adapted for combating forest fires, acquired with resources from BNDES and through a parliamentary amendment from Senator Jader Barbalho. The investment exceeds R$ 8 million, significantly expanding the corporation's response capacity in forest areas.
“With these investments, we now have nine forest vehicles, which add to the other 14 urban vehicles already delivered,” detailed the governor. “This represents a solid and modern structure that allows the corporation to operate effectively in both urban and forest areas, reaching wherever necessary.”
The commander-general, Colonel Jaime Benjó, emphasized that the delivery represents a milestone for the corporation.
“These units reinforce the government policy aimed at protecting the Amazon biome and addressing the hotspots of fires,” he stated. According to the officer, the current investment cycle is the largest ever recorded in the history of CBMPA. “Since 2019, the Fire Department has never received so much investment. Just in forest combat vehicles, there are over R$ 10 million. The 14 urban vehicles represented over R$ 30 million. In other words, almost R$ 50 million invested in the most modern equipment in the world,” he added.
Recognition of military personnel who worked at COP 30
The ceremony was also marked by a tribute to the 88 military personnel who worked during a fire outbreak recorded in the Blue Zone of the 30th United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP 30). The Fire Department of Pará was the only military institution present in the restricted area, ensuring an immediate response to the incident.
“Thanks to the extraordinary work of civilians and military personnel, we were able to quickly contain that fire outbreak. It took 40 seconds to stabilize the environment, and in 6 minutes, the fire was completely controlled,” highlighted Helder Barbalho. “This demonstrates the competence and efficiency of our troops.”
The military personnel were honored with medals, diplomas, and fire helmets in recognition of their performance during the international event.
Commander Jaime Benjó reinforced the importance of the strategic presence of the corporation at the site. “The decision to keep the Fire Department within the Blue Zone was fundamental to ensure a quick and efficient response. This reinforces the relevance of our corporation not only at the state level but also nationally and internationally,” he pointed out.
At the end of the program, Governor Helder Barbalho reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to strengthening public safety. “The Fire Department of the State of Pará is made up of workers who are always ready to protect the population with courage, preparation, and dedication,” he stated.
