GUWAHATI: The footpaths along GS Road in Ulubari have turned into potential death traps, with large portions of the concrete slabs missing for days, leaving pedestrians vulnerable to accidents. The deteriorating condition of the footpaths has created a hazardous situation for residents, particularly in a city where pedestrian safety is already a growing concern.
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The missing slabs have forced pedestrians to be on high alert while navigating the damaged footpaths, raising fears of accidents and injuries. Local residents and business owners have expressed frustration over the state of disrepair, calling for immediate action from the authorities.
A shopkeeper located near an affected area, speaking to G Plus, attributed the problem to recent desilting work carried out by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). “The desilting work left the footpath covers loose, and soon after, the footpath was in tatters. To date, no restoration has been done,” he said. The shopkeeper also mentioned that the situation has been intensified by two-wheeler riders who often violate traffic rules, riding on the footpaths to bypass traffic congestion, further damaging the slabs.
Public concern over the dangerous state of the footpaths is mounting, especially in light of a recent tragedy in Bamunimaidam, where a minor was swept away in open drains. The situation in Ulubari has raised fears that similar incidents could occur if immediate measures are not taken to repair the footpaths and restore pedestrian safety.
When contacted by G Plus, an official from GMC expressed unawareness of the specific situation in Ulubari but acknowledged that the footpath issue would be addressed. “We were unaware of the situation. A few projects were also carried out by the Public Works Department (PWD) in the area. The issue has been brought to our attention, and it will be rectified soon,” the official assured.
Despite these assurances, the condition of the footpaths in Ulubari remains a pressing concern for local residents, who are calling for more immediate and effective action from both GMC and PWD to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of pedestrians.
The recurring issue of poorly maintained footpaths and open drains in Guwahati highlights a broader problem of inadequate infrastructure management in the city, with both residents and officials pointing fingers at various departments for the delays in repairs and restoration.
As the city combats with these infrastructural issues, the safety of its citizens continues to hang in the balance.
