Guwahati Faces Severe Traffic Disruptions Amid Flyover Construction
On January 30, Guwahati experienced significant traffic disruptions as both lanes of the Chandmari flyover were unexpectedly closed due to ongoing construction of the MRD Road flyover.
The situation escalated rapidly, revealing serious shortcomings in planning and execution by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the contractor, along with inadequate coordination with traffic authorities.
While one lane had been blocked for 15 days following a public announcement about merging the new flyover with the existing structure, the sudden closure of both lanes caught commuters off guard.
Daily travelers, including office workers and those heading home, found themselves stuck in slow-moving or completely halted traffic.
Vehicles, including city buses from RG Baruah Road, were redirected to Rajgarh Road, which is already infamous for its narrow lanes. Traffic from Silpukhuri towards RG Baruah Road was rerouted through Bamunimaidam Colony and other residential areas, transforming quiet neighborhoods into congested thoroughfares.
Shortly after, traffic from RG Baruah Road was also diverted to Zoo-Narengi Road, forcing vehicles bound for Chandmari to navigate through Railway Colony Road, leading to severe congestion on this narrow route.
The frequent closures of the railway gate exacerbated the chaos, plunging the entire area into disarray. Urban planners and residents criticized the contractor for breaching fundamental construction standards.
Traffic police were observed struggling to manage the situation, blowing whistles with minimal effect.
A commuter named Abhijit expressed frustration, stating, "Blocking major roads without adequate planning, signage, or prior notice demonstrates gross negligence. The dust pollution from the construction site is also a significant concern, impacting visibility and public health, which violates environmental and safety regulations."
Another commuter remarked, "This isn't development; it's sheer harassment. Closing both lanes without warning or an alternative plan indicates that public convenience is not a priority for the administration."
An office worker from a media house added, "There were no signs, alerts, or traffic personnel—just chaos. Such disorder could only happen in Guwahati."
A traffic police official, who wished to remain anonymous, noted, "Sudden lane closures hinder effective traffic management. Without prior coordination, diversion plans are ineffective."
A resident of Rajgarh, who was stuck for over thirty minutes in his own neighborhood, commented, "Our narrow lanes have turned into highways. Residential areas are suffering due to poor planning."
Another local highlighted the alarming dust pollution from the construction site, noting the absence of sprinklers or barriers, which clearly violates environmental guidelines.
However, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Jayanta Sarathi Borah stated that the decision was made on a trial basis to evaluate traffic flow.
Attempts to reach PWD officials for comments were unsuccessful.