Khanapara, serving as the primary gateway to and from Guwahati, is a bustling yet unorganised hub for commuters
The area grapples with chaos and a lack of regulation, posing significant challenges for both passengers and law enforcement.
The constant entry of vehicles from various towns from Assam and the neighbouring states has turned Khanapara into a congested and unorganised stoppage.
The absence of designated spaces for different vehicles has led to a scramble for room, with passengers rushing from one point to another, trying to navigate through the vehicular mayhem.
The constant influx of vehicles from various cities across Assam has turned Khanapara into a congested and unorganised stoppage.
The absence of designated spaces for different vehicles has led to a chaotic state of affairs, at times, risking the lives of passengers.
Talking to GPlus, a frequent traveler, seeking anonymity said, "This place is extremely chaotic. Sometimes there is no space to wait for the bus as drivers and bus conductors always surround us, and there's no proper stoppage where the buses wait."
However, the issues extend beyond vehicular congestion, with the area becoming a hotspot for various activities, not all of them legal or safe. The chaotic scene includes not only travellers and city buses but also intercity buses and bike passengers, creating a mix of traffic and chaos that compounds the challenges faced by those navigating through Khanapara.
In addition to the chaotic landscape due to vehicular ill-discipline, Khanapara has also witnessed an increase in illicit activities.
On January 15, a successful operation by the East Guwahati Police Department led to the arrest of Samkart Marak, a Khanapara resident, with a substantial quantity of illegal substances near the Khanapara Flyover.
This follows a previous operation on November 25, where the Special Task Force apprehended two drug peddlers in front of the College of Veterinary Science, recovering heroin and other related items.
The drug-related incidents underscore the need for enhanced security measures and regulatory control in the Khanapara area.
Authorities face the challenge of balancing the bustling transit hub's functionality with effective enforcement to curb criminal activities.
Beyond drug-related issues, Khanapara has also become a point of concern for cases of trafficking and sexual assault.
On April 7, 2023, a shocking incident unfolded in the Tapabari Char area, where a woman was allegedly gang-raped by a group of nine men.
According to the victim's complaint, the prime accused had lured her into a car at Khanapara, promising her a job, only for her to be subjected to a horrific assault.
These incidents expose the vulnerabilities and risks individuals face in and around Khanapara, prompting a closer examination of the security and regulatory measures in place.
Meanwhile, talking to GPlus, Rahul Das, Managing Director of ASTC said that he understands the area to be chaotic and therefore they are constructing a mini ISBT building for smooth functioning. The building is set to be completed by the end of February.