Citizens fume as dangling wires pose hazards

Guwahati: Citizens of Guwahati have voiced their concern regarding the widespread issue of exposed and dangling wires across the city. The district authorities have issued new directives to pole-owning entities, demanding prompt action to address this problem.
Swagata Nath, a Guwahati resident, said, "Wherever we move we only see open wires, hanging overhead, posing a threat and creating an eyesore for the city. We want the best for the city; these wires should be maintained properly, and whatever technology is required should be implemented, as citizens, we can only raise concerns. Sometimes these wires fall off and get stuck in vehicles, if they spark, it can cause fires, making it a major hazard for people. The govt should look into it. Only constructing bridges is not enough."
The situation in Fancy Bazar presents significant risks, particularly as street vendors frequently hang their merchandise on wires, potentially causing wire loosening and creating dangers for both sellers and pedestrians.
Dimpi Saikia, another local resident, said, "As the open and hanging wires can be seen mainly above head, besides footpaths, it poses a serious threat, mainly for the pedestrian. We have to be very careful about the wires, whenever we walk through the footpaths. This has been a long-standing issue of the city and coupled with the problem of urban flooding it poses a serious hazard for the people. I hope this step by the authority may get into action as soon as possible in mitigating the long-term issue."
On Feb 11, the district authorities enacted a conditional order under section 152(1) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, instructing cable operators to properly secure and organise exposed wires. Due to non-compliance by some operators, the administration has decided to take firm action.
Official inspections revealed partial compliance, with some cable agencies properly arranging hanging wires. However, certain areas, including the airport to Khanapara route along the national highway, remained non-compliant with the conditional order.
The administration provided an opportunity for objections to be submitted at the Kamrup Metro district commissioner's office. With no objections received, the authority invoked section 155 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, making the previous order absolute. Pole-owning authorities must now address the issue at cable agencies' expense, including removal and confiscation of improperly maintained cables.
Kankan Sharma, sub-divisional magistrate of Kamrup (Metro), had previously said the order was issued following field verification and numerous reported difficulties and accidents.
TOI's attempts to contact pole-owning authorities were unsuccessful.