GUWAHATI: The Six Mile Flyover in Guwahati has once again come under scrutiny as restoration work disrupts daily life for commuters and residents. Public criticism has been mounting over the inefficiency of the Public Works Department (PWD) in maintaining the structure, which has required multiple repairs despite being a relatively new addition to the city’s infrastructure.
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Speaking to GPlus, an official from the PWD confirmed, “There are some hairline cracks on the pillar, and a gouting procedure is ongoing to treat it chemically and restore it. Additionally, we are thoroughly inspecting it for other faults. This might take around 1-2 months for complete restoration.”
The Six Mile Flyover, inaugurated in 2016, was boasted as a solution to ease traffic congestion along the busy GS Road corridor. However, since its inception, the flyover has been plagued by structural and maintenance issues. This is the third time significant restoration work is being undertaken, sparking questions about the quality of its construction and the adequacy of previous repairs.
In 2019, repairs were carried out to address surface cracks that had appeared less than three years after the flyover’s opening. Similar issues arose in 2022, with authorities citing "natural wear and tear" as the cause. However, residents and experts have repeatedly criticised the PWD for failing to implement long-term solutions and adopting what many perceive as a patchwork approach to maintenance.
The ongoing restoration has added to the woes of thousands of commuters who rely on the flyover daily. Traffic diversions have caused severe congestion on adjoining roads, including the GS Road and Beltola-Panjabari stretch. Frustrated residents of nearby areas like Six Mile and Panjabari have also reported dust pollution due to the construction activity.
A shopkeeper near the flyover, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “This has become a recurring issue. Every few years, they block parts of the flyover for repairs, but the problems keep coming back. It’s like they are just buying time instead of fixing the actual issues.”
A commuter shared similar sentiments: “The flyover was supposed to make our lives easier, but it’s doing the opposite. Every time they close it for repairs, the alternate routes get clogged. It feels like the PWD doesn’t care about the inconvenience they’re causing.”
The frequent need for restoration work on a relatively new structure raises serious questions about the PWD’s capabilities and the quality of materials used during construction. Despite repeated assurances from officials, the flyover’s problems persist, leading many to doubt the department’s commitment to building efficient and durable infrastructure.
Urban planning experts have also weighed in, criticising the lack of a robust inspection and maintenance framework. “If a flyover needs this much work within a decade of its inauguration, it points to major flaws in either its design, construction, or both. The authorities need to be held accountable for this repeated failure,” said an infrastructure consultant, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Beyond the inconvenience to the public, the repeated restoration works have also raised concerns about the financial and environmental costs involved. Each round of repairs incurs significant expenditure, which ultimately comes from taxpayers’ pockets. Additionally, the constant construction activity contributes to pollution and disrupts the local ecosystem.
“This is not just about money,” said a local resident. “Every time they start these repairs, we have to deal with noise, dust, and traffic. It’s affecting our health and our peace of mind.”
Public sentiment suggests that cosmetic fixes are no longer acceptable. Residents and commuters have called for a comprehensive audit of the flyover’s structural integrity, with many demanding accountability from the PWD and stricter oversight of future infrastructure projects.
Citizens argue that the government should invest in advanced materials and technologies to ensure the durability of such critical structures. Regular inspections and preventive maintenance, rather than reactive repairs, could also help mitigate recurring issues.
As the gouting process continues, commuters and residents have no choice but to endure the inconvenience for the next few months. Whether this round of restoration will finally address the flyover’s persistent problems remains to be seen, but public patience is wearing thin.
