Guwahati: Residents have raised concerns over public safety and called for stricter security measures at hotels and other public establishments, better surveillance and improved street lighting in residential areas following Monday night’s shootout in the city’s Bora Service area.“Hotels and other public establishments should strengthen entry checks, install metal detectors where necessary and maintain that CCTV cameras at entrances and other vulnerable points remain functional. Visitors must also be properly verified, and security personnel should be alert to suspicious activity to prevent such incidents,” said Rajkumar Gogoi, a Dispur resident.Biplab Sinha, who lives near Satgaon, called for stricter verification before arms licences are issued. He said authorities should conduct proper background checks, security assessments and verification of applicants before granting licences.However, residents said concerns extended beyond incidents such as the recent shootout, with everyday crimes, including chain-snatching, robbery and theft, continuing to threaten public safety, particularly for people travelling alone or returning home late at night.“Poorly lit lanes and isolated stretches often leave pedestrians vulnerable, especially at night. Sufficient street lights should be installed along with timely maintenance in those narrow lanes and residential neighbourhoods. Better visibility could help deter offenders and make it easier to identify suspicious movements,” said Ananya Choudhury, a Rupnagar resident.Residents also called for increased police patrolling in crime-prone areas, particularly during peak commuting hours and at night.“The incident was unfortunate and has left people shocked, especially as it occurred in the heart of the city. Guwahati needs stronger security through regular monitoring of crime-prone areas and faster police response. Police must also educate people on using emergency call boxes through awareness campaigns, demonstrations and community meetings, as these facilities remain largely unused due to a lack of awareness,” said Aditya Pran Changkakoti, a Silpukhuri resident.Following Monday night’s shootout in the city’s Bora Service area, residents have called for stricter security measures at hotels and other public establishments, better surveillance and improved street lighting in residential neighbourhoods.
