While housing complexes in Guwahati offer convenience and safety, the recurring issues of mismanagement, lack of transparency, and arbitrary rules have left many residents disillusioned. The solution lies in better governance, both at the level of resident welfare associations and through state intervention.
Owning or renting a flat in Guwahati might seem like a modern solution to the challenges of urban living, but for many residents, life in these housing complexes is becoming a battle against mismanagement, irregularities, parking and stringent rules. From non-functional lifts to curfews, residents are speaking out against issues that have turned their supposed havens into sources of constant frustration.
ALSO READ: Guwahati's Stray Animals Suffer From Administrative Neglect
Housing complexes in Guwahati, touted as safe and convenient alternatives to independent homes, often lack the very amenities they promise. Several buildings, particularly older ones, are plagued with non-functional lifts, leading to severe inconvenience for elderly residents and families with young children. The cause? A chronic lack of funds due to irregular or non-existent maintenance fee collections.
“When we moved in, the lift was operational, but within a year it broke down. The management blames insufficient funds, but many residents refuse to pay because they feel the money isn’t being used transparently,” said a resident of a six-storey building in Six Mile, who requested anonymity.
The problem isn’t confined to lifts. Basic facilities like water pumps, security systems, and even common area lighting are often neglected due to poor financial management by resident welfare associations (RWAs). Residents complain of a lack of accountability, with funds collected sporadically and used without proper disclosure.
For working tenants, the situation is even worse. Many housing societies impose a curfew, restricting entry after a specific time in the evening. While the rule is often justified as a safety measure, it has caused significant inconvenience.
“I work late shifts and often return home after 10 pm. There have been instances where the security guard refused to open the gate, and I had to call the building secretary to let me in. It’s humiliating,” said a designer living in a complex in Dispur.
Students and young professionals, who often work irregular hours or attend late classes, find these curfews particularly stifling. “Why should someone dictate when I can enter my own home? It feels like being in a hostel rather than a flat,” remarked a university student renting a flat in Zoo Road.
These curfews, implemented without tenant consultation, have led to friction between residents and RWAs. Students and young professionals are particularly vocal about the arbitrary rules, which they claim are outdated and discriminatory.
Community celebrations, often considered a highlight of living in a housing complex, have turned into a bone of contention for many. Mismanagement during festivals, lack of proper communication, and sudden expenses levied on residents dampen the festive spirit.
“Last Durga Puja, the RWA decided to organise a celebration without consulting us. They demanded ₹2,000 per flat a week before the event, and those who didn’t pay were excluded from the festivities. It created a lot of tension among residents,” said a homemaker from a housing society in Beltola.
Diwali celebrations have also seen similar issues, with complaints of selective participation and forced contributions. For some residents, this has led to a feeling of exclusion rather than community.
One of the most contentious issues in housing complexes is the maintenance fee. Residents allege that fees are often hiked arbitrarily, without prior notice or adequate justification.
“Our maintenance fee increased by 50% in six months, with no explanation from the RWA. When we demanded a breakdown of expenses, they gave vague answers. It’s deeply frustrating,” said a resident of a mid-range apartment complex in Chandmari.
This lack of transparency has prompted some residents to stop paying their fees altogether, which only worsens the situation. Non-payment of fees results in essential services being disrupted, leaving residents stuck in a vicious cycle of mistrust and inconvenience.
Despite the numerous grievances, many residents still believe that housing complexes offer better safety than individual homes. However, the trade-off often involves dealing with strict and sometimes unnecessary rules.
“Living in a flat means you’re less likely to face break-ins or other security threats, but the constant interference of the RWA can be suffocating. It’s a double-edged sword,” explained an elderly resident of a society in Panjabari.
For women living alone or families with children, the safety of gated communities remains a significant factor in choosing flats over independent homes. Yet, this sense of security often comes at the cost of personal freedom and convenience.
Another persistent issue plaguing Guwahati’s housing complexes is the mismanagement of vehicle parking. Residents often complain about insufficient parking spaces, with many being forced to park on the streets or in neighbouring areas, risking damage or theft. In some complexes, reserved parking spots are either sold multiple times or allotted unfairly, creating resentment among residents.
“There’s constant bickering over parking. Visitors’ cars occupy resident spots, and the RWA does little to manage the chaos. Sometimes, I return home late only to find my designated spot taken, and there’s no accountability,” said a resident of a complex in GS Road.
Additionally, larger vehicles like SUVs often occupy multiple spots, while two-wheelers are relegated to cramped corners, adding to the frustration. The lack of a clear parking policy in most complexes has turned what should be a simple task into a daily struggle for residents.
The root of many issues in housing complexes can be traced back to poor financial management by RWAs. Residents complain that fund collections are erratic, with no standardisation in how expenses are allocated. Some allege that RWAs prioritise cosmetic upgrades like repainting exteriors over critical repairs, such as fixing water tanks or upgrading electrical systems.
“The RWA painted the building last month but hasn’t repaired the broken boundary wall. What’s the point of looking good if basic safety is ignored?” asked a frustrated resident in Rukminigaon.
The growing dissatisfaction has prompted some residents to demand reforms in the way RWAs are managed. Suggestions include mandatory audits of maintenance funds, regular meetings to ensure transparency, and the inclusion of tenant representatives in decision-making.
There is also a call for greater government oversight. Some residents have suggested the formation of a state-level regulatory body to standardise RWA practices, ensuring fairness and accountability.
“A regulatory body could establish a framework for how RWAs operate. It’s high time the government intervened to protect the rights of residents,” said a local real estate expert.
Tenants, in particular, face challenges in navigating the legalities of housing society rules. Many RWAs do not recognise tenants as members, excluding them from important decisions. This has led to calls for amendments in state laws governing housing societies, ensuring that tenants are given a voice in matters that directly impact them.
“The law should mandate tenant representation in RWAs. We live here too and contribute to the maintenance, so why shouldn’t we have a say?” argued a tenant from a complex in Ganeshguri.
While housing complexes in Guwahati offer convenience and safety, the recurring issues of mismanagement, lack of transparency, and arbitrary rules have left many residents disillusioned. The solution lies in better governance, both at the RWA level and through state intervention.
As the city grows and more people turn to flats for housing, addressing these concerns is essential to ensure that residents can truly enjoy the benefits of community living. Until then, for many flat owners and tenants, the promise of a harmonious life in a housing complex remains just that – a promise.
