GUWAHATI: Despite clear directives from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to ensure the restoration of all roads in Guwahati before Durga Puja, the Public Works Department (PWD) has once again fallen short of expectations. While some stretches near construction sites, such as Chandmari and Rukminigaon, have been superficially mended, the pervasive dust pollution in these areas continues to make life miserable for residents.
ALSO READ: Guwahati Gulps Down More Than ₹20 Crore Worth Of Liquor During Durga Puja
The ongoing congestion and chaos on the incomplete Ganeshguri-Bhetapara road, especially the Hatigaon area are clear examples of PWD’s inefficiency. Commuters are frequently stuck in gridlock, with frustrated motorists having little choice but to navigate through hazardous, half-finished roads. Similarly, the GS Road leading towards Khanapara remains a picture of neglect, with large sections left unfinished, posing serious risks to drivers and pedestrians alike.
The Chief Minister’s commitment to road restoration appears to have been undermined by the very department tasked with executing his vision. The state of these roads is not only a failure on the part of the PWD but also an affront to Sarma’s pledge of delivering better infrastructure ahead of the festive season.
In an attempt to justify the delays, a PWD official told GPlus, “The persistent rains have caused significant setbacks to several projects. Additionally, a number of contractors have failed to meet their deadlines. We are working to complete the work as soon as possible.”
However, such excuses ring hollow to the residents of Guwahati, who have been enduring years of poorly maintained roads, frequent traffic snarls, and rising pollution levels. The lack of urgency from PWD only adds to the frustration of citizens, who are left wondering if the CM's words will ever translate into action.
