Two Labourers Electrocuted at Guwahati Flyover Site: Zero Accountability, Safety Lapses Exposed

Another tragedy has struck Guwahati’s flyover construction drive. Two labourers lost their lives and others were grievously injured after coming into contact with an 11kV overhead power line at the under-construction GNB Road flyover. One of the victims fell from the structure after being electrocuted, while others narrowly survived.

Shockingly, despite repeated accidents — 2 deaths and 5 injuries in just nine months — no investigation has been launched, and no agency has accepted responsibility.

The Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) has washed its hands off, claiming responsibility only “up to the electricity meter.” The Chief Electrical Inspector’s office says it investigates only cases involving power lines above 11kV, while the Public Works Department (PWD) blames workers for not following safety gear protocols.

Officials admitted that power lines had not yet been relocated to a safe distance, and that contractors failed to notify APDCL to cut supply during hazardous work. Workers, often without helmets, gloves, or jackets, continue to be exposed to lethal risks.

This recurring pattern of negligence points to a disturbing truth — Guwahati’s flyover construction is being carried out at the cost of workers’ lives, with agencies engaged in blame-shifting instead of enforcing safety.

Two men are dead. Several others injured. Yet, no probe, no accountability, no justice.