Guwahati has seen rapid growth in recent years, with increased movement on its streets even after dark. However, residents across several neighbourhoods say night-time safety has emerged as a growing concern, with fear becoming a part of daily travel after sunset.
People from residential localities as well as areas near transit points told GPlus that drug abuse, inadequate street lighting, isolated roads, and lack of regular monitoring have contributed to a rising sense of insecurity, particularly for women.
What are residents saying?
Residents say several pockets of Guwahati now feel unsafe after dark due to poor lighting, the presence of drug users, and deserted stretches. Women, in particular, report feeling unsafe while walking alone at night, even in areas close to educational institutions and residential colonies.
Gandhi Mandap: Safety concerns for women
Snigdha Das, a resident of Gandhi Mandap, said the locality has become increasingly unsafe, especially for women.
“There are many drug addicts roaming around, and people often talk about sex rackets operating nearby. Because of this, it does not feel safe to step out alone at night. Even a short walk feels risky now,” she said.
She added that women in the area remain constantly alert, avoiding late-night movement whenever possible.
Jyotinagar and FCI Colony: Isolated stretches add to fear
A resident from Jyotinagar, living in the FCI Colony area, said the presence of warehouses has made the roads unusually quiet at night.
“The roads become completely silent after dark. That silence itself is scary. Women do not feel safe walking alone,” the resident said.
She also highlighted that insecurity is not limited to isolated zones.
Areas near educational institutions are not spared
Residents pointed out that even stretches close to colleges are unsafe. “Near Guwahati College, the road feels unsafe at night. Groups of men often stand around and pass comments. Eve-teasing has become common there,” the Jyotinagar resident added.
Such accounts indicate that insecurity is spreading across both residential and semi-commercial areas.
Key factors contributing to insecurity
Residents repeatedly flagged the following issues:
- Poor or non-functional street lighting
- Presence of drug users in public spaces
- Long, isolated stretches with little movement
- Limited police patrolling or visible monitoring at night
Locals say the lack of consistent intervention has allowed these problems to persist.
What happens next?
Residents are urging authorities to improve street lighting, increase night patrols, and address drug-related activities in vulnerable areas. Many say sustained action, rather than occasional checks, is essential to restore confidence and safety after dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Residents have raised concerns about areas such as Gandhi Mandap, Jyotinagar, FCI Colony, and stretches near Guwahati College.
Poor lighting, drug abuse, isolated roads, and lack of regular monitoring are cited as key reasons.
