Guwahati, Assam: A massive blaze erupted in a building housing the SBI Northeast Regional Office fire in Guwahati, sending shockwaves across the city’s financial district. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, with the second floor of the building suffering the most severe damage. Staff members fear significant losses to documents, infrastructure, and operations.
The fire has raised urgent questions about safety preparedness in major corporate offices across Assam.
How the Fire Broke Out
Eyewitnesses reported smoke billowing from the second floor before flames quickly spread across the office space. Firefighters rushed to the scene, battling the blaze for hours before bringing it under control.
Although the exact cause is still under investigation, preliminary reports suggest an electrical short circuit may have triggered the fire.
Impact on SBI Northeast Regional Office
Second Floor Damage
The second floor of the building, which houses critical administrative units, was among the worst affected. Staff members expressed concern that important files, computers, and financial records may have been destroyed.
Staff Reactions
Employees described the incident as terrifying. “We saw thick smoke and rushed out immediately. It was chaotic, but thankfully most of us escaped unharmed,” said one staff member.
Emergency Response in Guwahati
Firefighters’ Efforts
The Guwahati Fire Department deployed multiple fire engines to contain the blaze. Their swift action prevented the fire from spreading to other floors and neighboring buildings.
Police and Civic Authorities
Local police cordoned off the area, while civic authorities ensured evacuation and crowd control. The incident highlighted the importance of coordinated emergency response in urban centers.
Regional and Financial Implications
Banking Operations
The SBI Northeast Regional Office fire in Guwahati may disrupt banking operations across the region. Customers could face delays in services, especially those linked to administrative functions managed from the affected office.
Assam’s Financial Hub
Guwahati serves as the financial hub of Northeast India. Therefore, any disruption in SBI’s regional office operations has ripple effects across Assam and neighboring states.
Safety Concerns in Corporate Offices
This incident has reignited debates about fire safety in corporate and government buildings. Experts argue that many offices lack adequate fire alarms, sprinklers, and evacuation drills.
Lessons for Assam
- Regular fire safety audits
- Installation of modern fire suppression systems
- Mandatory evacuation drills for staff
Voices from the Community
Local residents expressed concern about the safety of high-rise buildings in Guwahati. “We live nearby, and the fire was frightening. Authorities must ensure stricter safety checks,” said a resident.
Meanwhile, banking customers urged SBI to restore services quickly and reassure the public about data and financial security.
National Context: Fire Safety in India
India has witnessed several high-profile office fires in recent years. The Guwahati incident adds to growing concerns about workplace safety.
Strengthen Fire Safety in Assam
The SBI Northeast Regional Office fire in Guwahati is a wake-up call. Corporate offices, government institutions, and educational campuses must prioritize fire safety.
👉 If you work in an office, demand regular fire drills. 👉 If you manage a building, invest in modern fire suppression systems. 👉 As a citizen, stay alert and report safety violations to authorities.
READ MORE: Gaurav Gogoi Backs Tezpur University Students
The SBI Northeast Regional Office fire in Guwahati has left the city shaken, with the second floor suffering severe damage and staff fearing significant losses. While firefighters contained the blaze, the incident underscores the urgent need for stronger fire safety measures in Assam’s corporate and financial institutions.
As Guwahati rebuilds and SBI assesses the damage, one message stands clear: safety cannot be compromised. Protecting lives and assets must remain the top priority.