GUWAHATI: A fire that broke out on Sunday, February 2, around 10:10 PM at the Directorate of Sericulture’s quarters colony, Muga Farm in Khanapara, has raised serious concerns about the efficiency of Guwahati’s emergency response system. Although the fire was eventually contained without any casualties, residents allege that the delay and inefficiency of emergency services could have resulted in far graver consequences.
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The blaze, which spread rapidly through dry leaves and trees under unknown circumstances, left local residents scrambling to control the flames themselves. According to eyewitnesses, repeated attempts were made to contact the fire brigade, but distress calls went unanswered. Reportedly, some of the emergency numbers dialled were reportedly marked as “invalid.”
“With no response from the fire services, residents had to form a chain, using buckets of water to control the fire. Even after an hour, people were still working to ensure the flames were fully extinguished,” said a local resident who participated in the firefighting efforts.
Fortunately, the fire was contained to an open field and surrounding trees, with no loss of life or damage to residential property. However, the incident has raised critical questions about the city’s preparedness to handle emergencies, particularly in situations where time is of the essence.
Residents have expressed frustration over what they see as systemic neglect. “We were lucky this happened in a residential area where people could act quickly. But what if it had occurred in an isolated location or at midnight when fewer people were around to notice? What if homes or lives had been at stake? The inefficiency of emergency services could have led to a disaster,” said the resident.
The incident highlights the pressing need for more reliable emergency response mechanisms, better public awareness of emergency contact numbers, and improved infrastructure to handle such situations immediately.
When contacted by GPlus, an official from the Dispur Fire & Emergency Safety Services (F&ESS) department refuted claims of helpline failure. “It’s impossible that the emergency helpline numbers wouldn’t work. There are four numbers—100, 101, 112, and 108. I understand that the fire control room numbers are not known by everyone, but the helpline numbers are always attended,” the official stated.
Despite the department’s reassurances, residents remain sceptical, pointing out that their calls for help went unanswered during a critical time. This disconnect between public experience and official claims has only deepened concerns about the reliability of the city’s emergency response system.
While no lives were lost this time, residents worry that without immediate reforms, the city may not be as fortunate in the future. As Guwahati continues to grow, its emergency infrastructure must evolve to meet the rising demands of its population.
