GUWAHATI: The general public is unhappy with the functioning of the city buses. G Plus has been receiving letters and e-mails with images and videos providing evidence that there are gross mismanagement and unruly behaviour by these buses and their drivers.
“Guwahati city is facing acute problems of traffic jam and it is only because of reckless driving by city buses. The buses have become dangerous for other motorists with accidents being common due to mad driving. They are always racing among themselves without caring for other motorists. Many accidents happen in the city due to speedily overtaking, mindless crossing and sudden stopping by these buses,” writes Sumit Jain from Santipur.
There is a lack of respect for the traffic rules and the bus drivers are always flouting rules, claim the commuters. “The buses tend to stop here and there randomly, even if there is no bus stop, and they don’t care about the location of the designated stop. Overtaking is a big issue and the manner in which they stop the vehicle, blocks a certain portion of the road, thereby, creating long queues for other vehicles. The bus drivers don't care about the traffic signals, too. You can see an example at Maligaon gate no. 3 police signal point,” says another daily commuter.
The citizens are blaming the traffic department of ignoring their plight. “Police is doing nothing. I have requested the traffic police many times but they say that they alone cannot do everything. Whenever there is a VIP movement the traffic police is seen to be actively clearing the way, while the ambulances have to keep blaring the horn and siren to get way. It just means the traffic police has the capacity but are not doing their duty efficiently. There should be a priority for emergency services. For the normal public, traffic jam has become a part of their life.” laments Jain.
