Fitted with fire extinguishers and first aid, among others, the motorbikes will be helpful in tackling fires in narrow lanes and streets of the valley like New Road, Indra Chowk and Ason.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Federal Affairs and Local Development Prakash Man Singh launched the fire fighter bikes. Addressing the launch event, Singh said the bikes will modernise the fire brigade system in Nepal. He urged the fire brigade office to utilise the machines.

HH Bajaj Executive Director Sekhar Golchha said it was the company’s privilege to be able to assist the government for disaster management. “Kathmandu’s many roads are so narrow and congested, it is very difficult for fire brigade vehicles to reach on time,” he said. “So, we believe that the Toofan Motorcycles would come in handy in fire control and rescue system.”

He added the Toofan bikes will be part of the early responder team so that they will be able to reach the fire sites much faster than the fire brigade trucks.  

Appreciating the HH Bajaj’s CSR initiative, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Chief Executive Officer Laxman Aryal said it is an appreciable step taken by a responsible business house. “These fire motorcycles will be of great help to combat fire hazards in the Capital,” he said.

Kishor Bhattarai, chief at Juddha Barun Yantra, said the Toofan bikes will be helpful in mitigating fire risks posed by unmanaged urbanisation in the Capital. “We are thankful to HH Bajaj for thinking beyond their interest and helping us improve our system,” he said. “These motorcycles will definitely add value to our organisation.”

He said Bajaj Avenger motorbikes were chosen over other bikes as it features long chassis, big tyre, luxurious riding. “The Avenger has a powerful 220cc engine that produces 19 bhp power at 8,400 rpm and 13 nm of torque at 7,000 rpm,” he said. “Moreover, the bike has a top speed of 80 km per hour.”