The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is planning to increase the width of the Guwahati bypass by turning it into a six-lane highway and a detailed project report for the same is being prepared.
Reportedly, expansion of the bypass would considerably ease the traffic congestion all along the 18-kilometre bypass. At present, the congestion has a cascading effect, which sometimes runs up to Jalukbari and Bashitha points.
The NHAI has sanctioned Rs 71.98 crore to the State Public Works Department for construction of an RCC stormwater drain between Khanapara and the Inter State Bus Terminal covering a length of of 6.80 kilometres and improvement of the service roads of the bypass.
Sources revealed that the money was sanctioned to the State PWD way back in December 2015, but unfortunately, progress of the work has been very slow. The PWD has been directed to expedite the work so that it is completed before the FIFA under 17 World Cup.
Sources pointed out that the stormwater drain when completed, would ease the waterlogging problem on the Guwahati bypass to a great extent. After the drain is completed, water from the area would be drained out to the Deepor Beel. Moreover, the service roads of the bypass are in very bad shape and they need immediate repair and reconstruction. If the work is not completed before the mega football tournament, it may lead to serious problems and hence the PWD ought to expedite the work.