In 2024, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) announced a series of projects aimed at addressing the city’s long-standing infrastructure issues and improving public amenities. From revamping iconic markets to tackling urban flooding, constructing borewells, and introducing women-friendly infrastructure, GMC’s plans reflected a vision for a more modern and sustainable Guwahati. However, a closer look reveals a gap between promises made and actual progress on the ground.
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The Beltola Weekly Market, a historic hub for vendors and buyers, was envisioned as a modern G+6 market complex with dedicated vending zones and office spaces. Earlier, in 2023, the GMC announced the project would be completed by December 2024. However, the timeline has since been revised.
Talking to GPlus, a senior GMC official stated, “85% of the work has been completed, but the project will now likely be fully operational by the first half of 2025.”
This delay has raised concerns among vendors and shoppers who depend on the market. While some applaud the progress made, others feel that the prolonged timeline disrupts livelihoods.
Borewell Project: Falling Short of Promises
In January 2024, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) launched a project aimed at addressing water scarcity in the city by constructing borewells across all 60 wards. The initiative, funded under the Fifteenth Finance Commission's recommendations, earmarked Rs 20 lakh per ward, with a total budget of Rs 12 crore.
The project, seen as a critical step toward improving water availability in underserved areas, was initially expected to be completed by February 2024. GMC officials had assured that the work was on track and that residents in all wards would soon have access to borewell water.
However, the reality has fallen short of expectations.
Nearly a year later, out of 60 wards only 38 wards have operational borewells. Speaking to GPlus, a senior GMC official said, "Only 38 out of 60 wards have operational borewells. The work is still ongoing. Our teams are making every effort to ensure the remaining borewells are completed at the earliest."
The delay has left many residents frustrated, particularly in areas where water scarcity is a recurring issue. Several locals have expressed disappointment, questioning the pace of the project and its management. For many, the promise of accessible water remains unfulfilled, forcing them to continue relying on alternative and often costly sources.
While the GMC claims that efforts are underway to expedite the remaining work, the slow progress has raised concerns about the civic body’s ability to meet its own deadlines. Residents now hope that the GMC will deliver on its promise without further delays.
Talking to GPlus earlier, a senior GMC official had shared plans for a thoughtful initiative aimed at addressing the specific needs of women commuters. “We are planning to construct pink bus stops exclusively for women. These stops will include facilities like changing rooms and breastfeeding spaces to make travel more convenient and comfortable for female passengers,” the official had stated.
The project envisioned setting up 10 such pink bus stops across Guwahati, designed to prioritise women’s safety and comfort during their daily commutes. Highlighting the initiative’s significance, GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania had previously emphasised the importance of creating public spaces that cater to the well-being of female commuters. However, progress on the project has stalled. Providing an update, a senior GMC official recently told GPlus, “The plan is still in the pipeline. While the idea remains a priority, it has not yet moved to the execution stage.”
Bharalu has long suffered from unmanaged waste disposal, leading to clogged drains, foul smells, and environmental degradation.
In December 2024, a senior official from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) revealed plans for an intensive cleaning drive at Bharalumukh, one of the city’s busiest areas struggling with chronic garbage problems. Speaking to GPlus, the official said, “The cleaning of Bharalumukh will start from January 2025. This initiative is aimed at addressing waste accumulation and improving hygiene in the area. However, we urge people to stop dumping garbage indiscriminately, as public cooperation is essential for the success of this drive.”
The official emphasised that while GMC will execute the initial cleanup, maintaining cleanliness in Bharalumukh will require a collective effort. “We can clean the area, but if people continue to throw garbage irresponsibly, it will only lead to the same issues recurring. Public awareness and participation are key to making this drive successful,” the official added.
With the drive set to begin in January 2025, all eyes will be on GMC’s ability to not only clean Bharalumukh but also implement measures to ensure long-term cleanliness and waste management in the area.
In a recent press meet, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) shared a range of initiatives designed to address the city's growing infrastructure needs and improve public services. Among the most notable updates were plans to enhance sanitation, streamline property and tax processes, and tackle ongoing urban issues such as flooding and inadequate public facilities.
GMC stated that to improve waste management and cleanliness across the city, the corporation has procured sweeping machines, water sprinklers, and electric garbage vehicles. These new resources are expected to be deployed in key areas to ensure more efficient garbage collection and better street cleaning. The corporation also emphasised the importance of community involvement in maintaining cleanliness, urging residents to dispose of waste responsibly to support these efforts.
In addition to sanitation improvements, GMC highlighted its ongoing efforts to address urban flooding under its Mission Flood Free initiative. The corporation has committed to cleaning approximately 400 drains and five rivers to prevent blockages and flooding during the monsoon season. To further support these efforts, GMC has engaged Super Suckers for de-silting main roads and clearing out debris from storm water drains.
GMC also announced the construction of three major market complexes at Ganeshguri, Ulubari, and Beltola. These new markets aim to provide modern facilities for vendors and help boost local commerce. Additionally, the corporation has designated 17 vending zones across the city to ensure organised spaces for street vendors.
GMC revealed that residents will now be able to reassess their properties and generate holding numbers and trade licenses instantly through the GMC website. The corporation also urged residents to pay their property taxes on time and to renew their trade licenses. For those unable to use the online system, GMC has enlisted tax collectors and Pouro Sakhis to assist with manual collections.
GMC also shared progress on its street lighting project, with 11,000 streetlights already operational and another 10,000 set to be installed soon.
In addition, GMC introduced the Mukti Rath service, a free mortuary van that also provides eco-friendly briquettes for cremation, reflecting its ongoing commitment to social welfare and environmental sustainability.
