Challenges are immense, the solution lies in adopting a long-term vision for Guwahati’s road infrastructure
The deplorable state of Guwahati’s roads remains a daily struggle for its citizens, marked by uneven patches, temporary fixes, and an overall lack of finesse in construction and maintenance. Compared to metro cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, or Mumbai, the city’s road infrastructure leaves much to be desired, offering a subpar and inconsistent experience.
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A drive through Guwahati reveals the grim reality of its roads. Most streets are riddled with rough patches, resembling more of a patchwork quilt than a properly finished surface. A peculiar blend of bitumen and concrete blocks is evident on several stretches, creating a surface that is barely functional but far from ideal. This piecemeal approach to road repairs and construction underscores the systemic issues spreading the city’s infrastructure.
While cities like Delhi boast meticulously planned and scientifically executed roads with smooth finishes, Guwahati’s roads fail to even come close. Bengaluru and Mumbai, despite their own challenges with traffic congestion, manage to maintain roads that offer a more premium experience for commuters. The roads in these cities often undergo regular resurfacing, ensuring a uniform quality. In contrast, Guwahati’s roads deteriorate quickly, riddled with potholes and poorly patched sections that compromise both safety and comfort.
Citizens in Guwahati frequently complain about the lack of quality in road construction. “Travelling on Guwahati roads feels like a punishment. The uneven surfaces not only damage vehicles but also increase travel time and cause discomfort,” says a local resident from Rehabari.
A senior official from the Public Works Department (PWD), speaking to GPlus under the condition of anonymity, shed light on the underlying issues contributing to the problem. “The department has always been targeted for substandard work. Even when we deliver commendable results, they often perish due to factors like increasing vehicular activity, adverse weather conditions, and gaps between the department and contractors,” the official admitted.
One of the critical issues highlighted was the delay in funding. “Funds have always been an issue. Several contractors are yet to receive the estimates submitted to the authorities. These delays force contractors to compromise on the quality of materials and workmanship to manage expenses,” the official revealed.
Another major concern is the lack of synchronisation between scientific studies and their execution. Road construction requires meticulous planning, factoring in load-bearing capacity, drainage, and durability. However, in Guwahati, this process often lacks coherence. “The scientific study and execution are mostly out of sync. Hence, the condition of the roads speaks for itself,” the official added.
Guwahati’s roads face the brunt of extreme weather conditions, with heavy rains causing extensive damage to their surface. The absence of proper drainage systems increases the problem, as waterlogging weakens the structural integrity of roads, leading to quicker deterioration.
Furthermore, the city’s rapid urbanisation and increasing vehicular traffic add to the wear and tear. PWD officials argue that maintaining the roads in such conditions is an uphill battle. However, critics point out that the department’s reliance on temporary fixes, like patching potholes instead of resurfacing entire stretches, only prolongs the cycle of deterioration.
For Guwahati’s residents, the condition of roads has become a persistent grievance. “We pay taxes just like citizens in Delhi or Mumbai, but the quality of roads we get is nowhere near theirs. It feels like we’re being taken for granted,” said a commuter from Dispur.
The inconsistent surfaces not only damage vehicles but also pose safety hazards. Motorists are often forced to swerve to avoid potholes, increasing the risk of accidents. Pedestrians, too, face challenges, as poorly constructed footpaths and uneven road shoulders add to their woes.
The state of Guwahati’s roads reflects a broader issue of governance and accountability. Critics argue that the PWD and other concerned departments must prioritise transparency and efficiency in their operations. Clear timelines for fund disbursement, stricter quality checks on contractors, and the adoption of modern construction techniques are some of the measures suggested to improve the situation.
Moreover, citizens believe that there needs to be greater political will to address the issue. “Roads are the backbone of a city. Without proper infrastructure, Guwahati will always lag behind other cities in terms of development and liveability,” remarked another resident.
While the challenges are immense, the solution lies in adopting a long-term vision for Guwahati’s road infrastructure. Experts suggest that the city can learn from the practices of metro cities, such as regular maintenance schedules, scientific road construction methods, and robust monitoring systems to ensure quality.
For now, however, the uneven roads of Guwahati remain a glaring reminder of the city’s infrastructural shortcomings. Until systemic changes are implemented, citizens will continue to endure the bumpy ride through a patchwork of neglect.
