Archive · 13 Dec 2025
Fire Safety Norms Flouted in Guwahati High-Rises
In Guwahati, many tall buildings and old areas are not following fire safety rules.
This is a big problem because if a fire starts, it's hard for fire trucks to reach the buildings due to narrow roads.
The area between Fancy Bazar and Lakhtokia is especially at risk because the buildings are old and the roads are crowded.
Many building owners do not do regular fire safety checks, and the government is not strictly enforcing the rules.
Even though the fire service has better equipment now, it won't help if the fire trucks can't get to the buildings.
The government needs to take strong action to make sure buildings follow the safety rules.
Many high-rise buildings in Guwahati do not follow fire safety norms, with owners primarily concerned with obtaining NOCs.
Congested areas, particularly between Fancy Bazar and Lakhtokia, are at high risk due to narrow roads and old buildings.
Old buildings lack fire safety measures and cannot support heavy water tanks and sprinklers required for modern safety standards.
Regular fire safety audits are not conducted by most building owners, and the government has not enforced random audits.
While fire service facilities have improved, congestion still hinders the effectiveness of new equipment.
- Who
- Building owners and authorities in Guwahati
- What
- Fire safety norms are being flouted in high-rise buildings
- When
- December 13, 2023
- Where
- Guwahati, India, particularly between Fancy Bazar and Lakhtokia
- Why
- Lack of enforcement, congestion, and outdated infrastructure
- Location
- Guwahati, India
- Date
- December 13
- Vulnerable Area
- Fancy Bazar to Lakhtokia
- Fire Tender Access Issue
- Congested roads hinder access
- Fire Safety Act
- 1985
- Fire Service Improvements
- Water pipes up to 400m, hydraulic stairs up to 56m