Electrical Accident Highlights Safety Gaps
A serious electrical accident at the Noonmati-Ambari flyover construction site has intensified safety concerns among Guwahati residents. Early morning on Monday, construction worker Saiful Haque suffered an electric shock while working on a flyover pillar in the Chandmari area after coming into contact with live electrical wiring.
Emergency responders rushed Haque to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for immediate treatment. According to PWD executive engineer Bhaskar Bhagawati of the New Guwahati division, the injured worker is now in stable condition and recovering.
“These workers are hired by contractors who bear responsibility for implementing proper safety protocols,” Bhagawati explained. “We will ensure these safety measures are strictly enforced at all construction sites moving forward.”
Residents Voice Growing Safety Fears
Local communities surrounding the construction zone have expressed significant alarm over what they describe as hazardous construction practices that potentially endanger both workers and the public.
The Maniram Dewan Road has been substantially narrowed due to construction activities, with building materials, heavy equipment, and temporary barriers creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and vehicle traffic alike.
Aparub Datta, who commutes daily via MRD Road, shared his concerns: “Beyond the dust pollution and blocked access routes, there are exposed electrical wires and high-tension lines dangerously close to where construction is happening. It feels like we’re witnessing an accident waiting to happen.”
Waterlogging Compounds Electrical Hazards
Monsoon conditions have worsened safety issues at the construction site, creating dangerous combinations of water and electrical equipment.
“The road becomes completely waterlogged after every rainfall,” reported Bamunimaidam resident Milin Dutta. “With open electrical wires and high-tension lines throughout the area, it’s terrifying to even walk through these sections. The community fears more serious incidents could occur if safety measures aren’t improved.”
Infrastructure Safety Requires Urgent Action
The incident highlights the critical need for enhanced safety oversight at urban infrastructure projects, particularly in densely populated areas where construction directly impacts daily commuter routes.
While the PWD has acknowledged the incident, community members are calling for more comprehensive safety measures, including proper electrical insulation, clear hazard markings, and improved drainage systems to prevent waterlogging near electrical equipment.
As construction continues on the vital Noonmati-Ambari flyover project, both authorities and contractors face increasing pressure to prioritize worker and public safety alongside project completion timelines.
