In light of the release of our G Plus 11th anniversary edition tabloid, we asked respected citizens of Guwahati about the future they envision for this beloved city of ours. In response, we have been greeted with an overwhelming feedback about the kind of society that our people want to see, and the safe haven that everyone of us should be aspiring for. Here are a few of the most influential personalities that have lent their voices to us.
ALSO READ: GPlus Celebrates 11 Years With Students Perspective On Guwahati
Currently, Guwahati's urban infrastructure is in need of significant improvement. I envision Guwahati as a city with critical expectations, such as a well-connected, reliable, and affordable public transit system that reduces traffic congestion and pollution; parks and open spaces for recreation and relaxation, promoting mental well-being and community engagement; eco-friendly initiatives including recycling programmes, renewable energy usage, and green building standards to reduce the city's carbon footprint; a robust job market with diverse industries and opportunities for career growth and innovation; access to top-tier educational institutions and learning opportunities for all age groups; State-of-the-art medical centres and accessible healthcare services for all residents; policing and community programmes that ensure the safety and security of inhabitants; a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theatres, music venues, and festivals celebrating diversity and creativity; integration of intelligent technologies for improved city management, communication, and services; affordable and varied housing choices that cater to different income levels and family sizes; dependable access to utilities like water, electricity, and internet, as well as well-maintained roads and public infrastructure; a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds, encouraging inclusivity and acceptance; efficient and transparent governance that involves citizen participation and addresses community needs; Encouraging start-ups and technological advancement to solve urban challenges and improve city living.
By balancing these elements, we can create a dynamic and thriving urban environment that not only caters to the needs and aspirations of its inhabitants but also values and integrates their diverse perspectives and experiences into the fabric of Guwahati's future.
Dr Ranjit Sarma
Principal, Handique Girls’ College
Ideal Guwahati is a city where compassion and empathy for animals should be developed within every individual, followed by a 24-hour animal hospital that reflects a strong commitment to animal welfare. While modernization is essential for progress, it should not come at the expense of the natural environment. The city should balance development with sustainability, ensuring that its lush landscapes and biodiversity are preserved. This harmonious approach will foster a community that values both innovation and the protection of its nature.
Ideal Guwahati should harmoniously blend modern development with environmental conservation. Currently, infrastructural growth has enveloped the city in dust and pollution. To counter this, we should prioritize planting more trees instead of cutting down existing ones. A balanced approach that values both development and conservation is essential. We must ensure that progress does not come at the expense of our natural surroundings, fostering a sustainable future for all residents.
Abhay Bora,
Animal Activist
I envision a future Guwahati where everyone, regardless of ability, can navigate the city effortlessly. It will be a vibrant hub for culture and freedom of expression, embracing inclusivity. Sustainability will be a key priority, in shaping a better city. Safety will be of utmost importance, ensuring a secure environment for all residents. This vision of Guwahati is not just a dream, but a goal achievable through thoughtful planning, investment, and active community engagement.
Arman Ali,
Executive Director
National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP)
My version of an ideal Guwahati would be a city with clean air, water, and land. A city that is convenient, affordable, and easy for people of all ages, genders, and physical abilities to navigate, with safe, sustainable transportation options like walking, cycling and public buses. A city where everyone has the opportunity to live a dignified life, with equal access to and equitable distribution of resources. A city that is peaceful, free of crime, adaptive and climate resilient. A city where a harmonious balance and active engagement between the Government, the Market, and Society are well maintained.
Arshel Akhter
Bicycle Mayor of Guwahati, Urbanist and Co-Founder Purvca Foundation
For a healthy environment of the city, clean air, stable climate, adequate water, sanitation and hygiene, safe use of chemicals and protection of water bodies is imperative. In fact, there is need to create new water bodies for rain water reservoirs. Besides, there has to be a proper solid waste management system, including source segregation of wet and dry waste. We also need healthy and safe workplaces and extensive health support environment. In all, to me, my ideal city is one where health for its citizens gets a due place.
Pramod Kalita,
General Secretary of Deepor Beel Suraksha Mancha and Environmentalist
My ideal vision for Guwahati combines modern infrastructure with a deep respect for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. I imagine a city with efficient, traffic-free public transport, sustainable urban planning, and green spaces that offer residents a respite from city life. Preserving the Brahmaputra River and reducing pollution would be priorities, creating a healthier, flash flood-free environment. I’d also envision Guwahati as a hub for promoting local cuisine, arts, and festivals, where traditional roots meet progressive thinking, making it vibrant and welcoming for locals and tourists alike.
Nayanjyoti Saikia,
MasterChef
My ideal Guwahati will be one with congestion-free road by incorporating more public transport. Other than emergency there should be a 100% ban on single person driving and travelling alone in a car. When the number of vehicles will be less, necessity of road infrastructure, flyover shall be much less. As a result, pollution will come down approximately by half.
Road and flyover infrastructure should include scientific research oriented drainage system that will bring down the effect of artificial flood.
There should be a 100% ban on land filling and hill cutting to enable us to stay nearer to the nature and retain the breathable space.
I think such steps will make Guwahati automatically a green and smart city, and a city of my dream.
Ranel Das,
Architect
