Ward Number 43, home to approximately 45,000 residents, is struggling with deteriorating infrastructure, incomplete roadworks, and increasing dust pollution. Despite having around 25,000 registered voters, the ward’s actual population is much higher due to the recent influx of residents in newly constructed apartment complexes. However, basic civic amenities remain largely inadequate, leaving residents frustrated with authorities.
The ward, which covers areas like Bhetapara, Ghoramara, Beharbari, Nalapara, Lalmati, and Chandan Nagar, has been witnessing rampant construction, increasing dust pollution and road congestion. Additionally, large-scale infrastructure projects by the Guwahati Jal Board (GJB) and Purba Bharati Gas Private Limited (PBGPL) have worsened the condition of roads, as repair work following pipeline installation has been haphazard at best.
ALSO READ: Guwahati's Garbhanga Reserve Forest Finds No Place On Assam Tourism Map
One of the most pressing concerns for residents of Ward 43 is the poor condition of roads. Many lanes remain either in a completely broken state or riddled with potholes, making daily commutes a nightmare. The issue has been further aggravated by ongoing construction activities, leaving roads layered in dust.
Speaking to GPlus, Ward Councillor Anjana Borah acknowledged the problem and pointed fingers at multiple government agencies, stating, “We have highlighted the issue about the roads to GMC, but the outcome is nil as PWD and other concerned departments are pointing fingers at each other.”
The delay in road restoration has left residents exasperated. Many roads in the ward remain in ruins, despite repeated appeals to authorities. The lack of any confirmed road restoration projects has added to public frustration, as they fear the situation will continue to deteriorate.
“The roads in Ghoramara and Nalapara are almost impassable, especially during the monsoon. It feels like no one is actually in charge,” said a local resident on condition of anonymity.
The Guwahati Jal Board and Purba Bharati Gas Private Limited recently carried out a pipe-laying project, but instead of improving civic amenities, the outcome has been disastrous. While taxpayers’ money was spent on extensive digging and pipe installation, neither water nor gas supply has been made available to residents. Worse still, the roads that were dug up for these projects were left in a shambles.
"The supply of both water and gas has still not turned into reality in the area," noted one resident, echoing disappointment.
With no clear timeline for the completion of these utility services, locals feel abandoned by both the authorities and the private sector companies responsible for these projects.
Ward 43 has long suffered from seasonal flash flooding, particularly during the monsoon. Waterlogging is a severe issue, with bylanes quickly turning into pools of stagnant water. This year appears to be no different, as pre-monsoon drainage clearance has not been conducted.
Despite residents repeatedly urging the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) and other civic bodies to improve drainage systems, there has been no meaningful action. The existing drains remain clogged, and no new drainage infrastructure has been put in place.
However, Borah believes the problem does not rest solely with the authorities. “The authority cannot be blamed regarding this matter solely. Even the citizens disregard proper drainage planning before the construction of residential complexes,” she stated.
While some residents acknowledge that unplanned construction has contributed to the drainage crisis, they argue that it is the duty of GMC and other concerned bodies to ensure proper drainage planning before granting construction permits.
Another significant issue plaguing Ward 43 is poor street lighting, which has become a serious safety hazard. While major roads are equipped with street lights, many interior roads remain poorly lit, making them unsafe at night.
This has particularly impacted areas near the highway, where the absence of street lights has led to increased accidents and security risks. Residents have repeatedly demanded proper illumination, but their requests have gone largely unheard.
“There are entire stretches of roads where walking at night feels unsafe. The lack of street lights makes it easier for criminals to operate,” said a local shopkeeper from Bhetapara.
The ward falls under the jurisdiction of the Basistha and Hatigaon police stations. While serious crimes have not been rampant, petty thefts and burglaries continue to be reported.
According to Borah, the police have been active in addressing these issues. However, residents remain wary of increasing security concerns, particularly due to the lack of street lighting in key areas.
A resident of Lalmati shared his concerns, stating, “We have seen thefts happening frequently in dark alleys. The police respond, but better lighting and patrolling could prevent these crimes in the first place.”
Amidst the many challenges faced by the ward, one positive aspect is the presence of an urban dispensary in Vidya Mandir Path, which has been catering to the healthcare needs of residents. Equipped with proper medical facilities and doctors, it has been instrumental in handling emergencies and providing basic healthcare services.
So far, no serious public health issues have been reported from the ward, which is a rare piece of good news for residents struggling with other civic challenges.
Despite numerous complaints and appeals, there is little sign of improvement in Ward 43. Residents are losing patience as they continue to deal with neglected roads, incomplete infrastructure, and the ever-present dust pollution caused by ongoing construction.
The absence of a clear timeline for road restoration, drainage improvement, and street light installation has left locals feeling abandoned by the authorities. Meanwhile, flash flood fears loom large as another monsoon approaches.
One elderly resident summed up the general sentiment, stating, “We have been hearing the same promises for years, but nothing actually changes. Every year, we hope for better roads and proper drainage, but every year, it’s the same struggle.”
With no immediate projects in the pipeline to address these concerns, the future of Ward 43 remains uncertain, and residents can only brace themselves for another season of difficulties.
Ward 43 serves as a reminder of the persistent civic failures in Guwahati. While rapid urbanisation continues, basic infrastructure struggles to keep up, leaving thousands of residents in a state of inconvenience. Unless urgent action is taken to repair roads, improve drainage, install street lights, and ensure the completion of utility projects, the ward will continue to languish in neglect.
For now, broken roads, dust pollution, and flash flood fears remain the grim reality for the people of Ward 43.