Panchkula, Oct. 28 -- With its only hydraulic platform-cum-turntable ladder out of service following the expiry of its registration certificate, Panchkula's fire department may have to rely on neighbouring Chandigarh to rescue people trapped in high-rise buildings during major fire emergencies.

This even as the city continues to expand vertically, with residential and commercial buildings rising several storeys.

A hydraulic ladder is a specialised fire-rescue vehicle fitted with a rotating, hydraulically operated boom or ladder and a safety basket which can lift firefighters to upper floors, windows, balconies and rooftops to rescue trapped occupants and direct water or foam onto fires from elevated positions. The equipment is particula...