Public Spaces Of Guwahati Turn Into Dens Of Addiction

Police cite inadequate manpower as a constraint in keeping a close eye on the goings-on.


GUWAHATI: Substance abuse is becoming an increasingly visible issue in Guwahati, particularly in parks and other open spaces. These areas, intended for public recreation, have turned into havens for drug addicts, with little to no intervention from the authorities. Despite frequent public complaints, the misuse of such spaces continues unchecked, raising questions about the efficacy of local law enforcement.

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From the stretch between Bharalu and Machkhowa to the quieter corners of Rukminigaon, Chandmari, and Bamunimaidan, instances of public intoxication have become a common sight. Substance abusers, often street dwellers, can be seen lounging on plastic sacks or leaning against trees, completely inebriated, even in broad daylight. While authorities boast of their efforts to curb drug use, the ground reality paints a different picture altogether.
 
The rise in substance abuse is not restricted to isolated spots. Public grounds, both fenced and open, are often appropriated for illegal activities, including drug consumption. Despite the presence of parks with security measures, these facilities remain largely underused, while unregulated spaces see rampant misuse.
 
An anonymous resident of Chandmari expressed, "It's frustrating to see our parks and open spaces being misused like this. Children can't play safely anymore, and every time I pass by one of these places, there’s someone getting high. The authorities are fully aware, but nothing seems to be done."
 
Another local, this time from Beltola, highlighted the growing danger: "What’s most disturbing is how brazen it has become. People are getting high right next to public pathways, in full view of pedestrians. It’s as if the authorities have just given up, letting the situation spiral out of control. The drug menace is out in the open, and no one’s paying attention."

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A resident of Uzanbazar, an area previously infamous for similar activities, added, "The only reason there’s been a drop in drug-related activities here is because of construction projects along the riverbank. It wasn’t due to any active policing. We still have other parts of the city where this issue is rampant, and it's only getting worse."
 
The lack of effective policing is evident from the statements of city officials. Speaking to GPlus, a senior police official admitted: "We send a patrolling party on rounds at night. During the day, with the manpower we have, often these things go unnoticed. Mostly, street dwellers are found getting intoxicated openly. However, we will try to be stricter since this topic has been brought up."
 
This statement reflects a concerning disconnect between public perception and law enforcement’s approach to the issue. It seems that despite the obvious prevalence of drug abuse, daytime monitoring is neglected, and enforcement efforts are limited. This laxity allows drug peddlers and abusers to operate freely, while ordinary citizens are left to deal with the consequences.
 
During the government’s ongoing "war on drugs" campaign, the city police have arrested several peddlers. However, the sporadic nature of these operations, combined with a lack of sustained enforcement, has done little to curb the overall trend. Drug deals continue to occur in several known spots across the city, including Basistha, Gorchuk, and other far-flung areas. Yet the authorities appear overwhelmed, if not indifferent, to the escalating crisis.
 
The unchecked spread of substance abuse in public spaces has far-reaching consequences. These areas, which should be safe for families, children, and young people, have become unsafe, unwelcoming environments. Recreational activities, such as sports and exercise, have been pushed to the background as fear and apprehension take over.
 
A concerned parent from Bamunimaidan lamented, "I’ve stopped taking my kids to the local park. You never know who or what you might encounter there anymore. It’s a shame because these spaces were meant for families, for children to play, but now they’re being taken over by addicts. The authorities need to step up and take responsibility for what’s happening."
 
Moreover, the growing sense of insecurity in these areas is affecting the community's mental health and wellbeing. The loss of safe recreational spaces is particularly damaging for young people, who are left with fewer outlets for healthy activities. It also raises serious concerns about the future of public health and safety in Guwahati if the issue remains unaddressed.
 
It is clear that the authorities can no longer afford to ignore this issue. While there have been isolated efforts to tackle drug peddling, the broader problem of substance abuse in public spaces requires a more holistic and sustained approach. Increased patrolling, particularly during the day, and a crackdown on known hotspots are essential first steps. Furthermore, better coordination between law enforcement, community leaders, and local organisations could help create a more effective response to the crisis.
 
But the question remains: How long will the authorities continue to turn a blind eye to the misuse of Guwahati’s public spaces? As the situation worsens, citizens are left wondering when, or if, their concerns will be taken seriously. Without immediate action, the city risks further deterioration, with its public spaces becoming synonymous with neglect and lawlessness. 
 
Guwahati deserves better. Its residents deserve safer, cleaner, and more secure recreational areas. It’s high time the authorities take this issue seriously and put in place the measures necessary to restore the city’s public spaces to their intended purpose. For now, though, it seems that the only ones enjoying these parks are those who have turned them into open-air drug dens.