Ahmedabad’s Manek Chowk Faces Major Fire Risk As 150+ Illegal Gold, Silver Furnaces Operate In Residential Areas

Ahmedabad’s historic Manek Chowk and neighbouring Khadia areas are facing a serious fire and pollution risk, with more than 150 gold and silver refining and polishing furnaces allegedly operating illegally in residential pockets. The units are functioning amid densely populated areas, raising concerns over the safety of thousands of residents and the city’s heritage structures.

Fire Incident Raises Fresh Safety Concerns

The issue has come under renewed focus after a fire broke out at night in the area a few days ago, triggering panic among residents.

Following the incident, authorities inspected individual units and issued notices. However, locals say the action has done little to address the larger problem, as several such furnaces continue to operate in the area.

Residents fear that a fire involving LPG cylinders, electrical equipment or flammable material could quickly spread through the densely packed neighbourhood.

Commercial Units Operating In Residential Areas

Manek Chowk and Khadia have seen commercial activity for years, despite large parts of these areas being residential.

Locals allege that gold and silver melting, refining and polishing units are operating from these residential premises, resulting in both air and water pollution.

Smoke released during the refining process has added to air pollution, while chemicals and industrial waste are allegedly being discharged into sewer and drainage lines.

Residents say this has contributed to frequent choking and damage to drainage lines and has also affected water quality.

Fire Safety And Environmental Compliance Under Question

Residents have raised concerns over whether these units have the required safety arrangements and permissions.

Questions have been raised over the use of LPG, electrical installations, fire-fighting equipment, emergency exits, ventilation systems and compliance with environmental regulations.

The area also contains several heritage buildings, which the administration is promoting as part of efforts to boost tourism. Locals, however, fear that unchecked commercial activity could pose a threat to these historic structures.

Residents say they have repeatedly submitted representations to the authorities over the issue but claim that the problem remains unresolved.

Behrampura, Danilimda Also Face Pollution Concerns

Similar concerns have been raised in Behrampura, Danilimda, Isanpur and Narol, where illegal commercial activities are allegedly being carried out from residential properties.

Residents claim that toxic fumes and industrial waste from some of these activities are released into the surroundings.

According to locals, pollution becomes particularly noticeable at night, with smoke spreading across the area towards Kankaria. Residents have complained of breathing difficulties and persistent eye irritation.

They have accused the authorities of failing to take effective action against activities that could pose risks to public health and safety.

Areas Where Furnaces Are Reportedly Concentrated

According to the information provided by local residents, such activities are particularly prevalent around:

• Ghanchi’s Crossroads
• Dedka’s Crossroads
• Rupasoor Chand’s Crossroads
• Luhar’s Crossroads
• Gusa Parekh’s Crossroads
• Ratan’s Crossroads
• Khetarpal’s Crossroads
• Bandhara’s Groove
• Cobbler’s Window

The continued operation of these units in densely populated and heritage areas has raised concerns over the possibility of a major fire, pollution-related problems and damage to Ahmedabad’s historic neighbourhoods.