Presenting the president’s medal to fire services personnel he said that negligence in following the rules and regulations seems to be the reason behind the loss of 158 precious lives in Mangalore. “The Bajpe airport is a very good one. I have travelled there several times,” he said.

“The contribution of the Fire and Emergency department towards civil defence is a very appreciable. Under the able leadership of the officers the Department has made up for the lack of modern technology with their bravery in disaster management,” he said.

Home Minister V S Acharya also recorded his and Government’s appreciation towards the Fire and Emergency Department for their efforts and their work ethics in helping the investigation into the Mangalore aircraft disaster. “The recovery of the Black Box on Tuesday was done with the able support and help of the fire department in Mangalore. The disaster management in the aircraft disaster was quick and efficient,” he said.

Meritorious Service (Vishshta Seva Medal) and the Distinguished Service Medal (Seva Medal) were presented to 79 Fire and Emergency Service personnel from across the State for the year 2008 and 2009.