A firefighter from the Panvel Municipal Corporation, has made the city proud by winning a bronze medal at the 21st World Police and Fire Games held recently in Alabama, USA.
Shubhangi Santosh Ghule competed in the Ultimate Fire Fighting Challenge as part of the Indian contingent. Just a year into being recrucited into the fire department of Panvel Municipal corporation (PMC) Ghule was determined to make a mark for herself and left for United States on June 24.
Speaking about her experience, Shubhangi said, “This competition was a very important experience for me. The unwavering support of my coaches, family, and the Municipal Corporation has always motivated me. I will continue to work harder and aim to bring further glory to India.”
Her stellar performance stood out among participants from over 50 countries.
"The World Police and Fire Games are an international sporting event that tests the skills and endurance of personnel from police and fire services across the globe. In the 2025 edition, top teams from around the world competed in various challenging events designed to reflect real-life emergency service scenarios," explained an officer from the corporation.
Despite stiff competition, Shubhangi is informed to have showcased exceptional strength, speed, and technique to clinch the bronze medal in one of the toughest events of the tournament." Her victory not only highlights the athletic potential of emergency service personnel but also underscores the growing role of women in physically demanding and critical public service sectors," said chief the fire officer Pravin Bodakhe.
Prior to this global victory, Shubhangi had also displayed an impressive performance on the national stage. " In April 2025, she secured two gold medals—in discus throw and shot put—at the Third Edition of the All India Fire Services Sports and Fire Services Meet, held at Thyagaraj Stadium, New Delhi," said the officer . The civic body had nominated 4 Fire personnels that included 2 men and 2 women and sponspored the entire event.
"Two women were selected to participate in the international event. One of the candidate backed out whereas Shubhangi continued. Nearly 6.5 lakhs was sponspored by the administration. This was the second year of the state level compeltion and we are hopeful that there will be more participation in the future, said the fire officer.
