Indore: Tangled Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber Cables Become a Major Concern for Residents; Rainy Season Raises Risk of Serious Accidents

Indore: Like several other parts of the city, SCME No. 71, Gumasta Nagar is facing a growing public safety issue due to old and unused internet cables belonging to Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber. The tangled wires, hanging haphazardly over rooftops, electricity poles, and public roads, have become a serious hazard for residents. With the onset of the monsoon, concerns have intensified over the possibility of these cables coming into contact with high-voltage power lines, potentially leading to fatal accidents.

Residents of SCME No. 71, Gumasta Nagar stated that the old and abandoned internet cables installed by Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber have remained unattended for a long time, posing a constant threat to public safety. In several locations, cables pass directly over residential rooftops, while at many places they hang dangerously low across roads. This situation poses a significant risk to children, senior citizens, pedestrians, and two-wheeler riders.

Residents further pointed out that during the rainy season, many internet cables run parallel to or extremely close to electricity supply lines. They fear that if these cables accidentally become electrically charged, a major tragedy could occur. Despite the seriousness of the issue, the concerned service providers have allegedly failed to take appropriate action.

According to the residents, they have repeatedly lodged complaints with technicians of both Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber, requesting the removal of old and unused cables. However, technicians reportedly inspect only inactive connections and leave without removing the abandoned wires. No action has been taken to clear the hazardous cable network spread across the locality.

Residents also alleged that when they insist on the issue, some employees dismiss their concerns by saying, “File a complaint wherever you want; the cables will not be removed.” Such an alleged attitude has caused widespread resentment among the local community.

The residents questioned who would be held accountable if these neglected cables were to cause a serious accident in the future. They asked whether the private service providers would accept responsibility in the event of any loss of life or property. In view of the continued inaction, the residents are now preparing to submit a written complaint to the District Collector against Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber.

Residents have also questioned the Indore Municipal Corporation, asking why effective action is not being taken to ensure public safety and maintain civic infrastructure despite the regular collection of property tax. They warned that unless the hanging and abandoned cables are removed promptly, a major accident could occur at any time.

Speaking to SD News Agency, Dr. R. Jain, Social Worker, District President of Nirvaha Foundation, and Public Grievance Officer, said that continuous complaints are being received from residents regarding the issue. She emphasized that Jio Fiber, Airtel Fiber, the Municipal Corporation, and other concerned departments should immediately conduct a joint inspection and remove all abandoned and dangling cables from the area. She further stated that if timely action is not taken and any accident or loss of life occurs, the responsibility should be fixed on the concerned service providers as well as the responsible government departments.

The residents have appealed to the administration to treat public safety as the highest priority by ensuring the immediate removal of old and unused Jio Fiber and Airtel Fiber cables. They also urged the authorities to establish an effective monitoring mechanism to prevent such hazardous situations from recurring in the future.