A peculiar trend has taken root on Narakasur Hill near the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where medical and nursing students frequently hitchhike to reach their classes. Due to the challenging terrain and narrow roads, public transport remains non-existent, forcing students to rely on the goodwill of passing motorists.
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The hilly and winding nature of the road has deterred the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) from providing bus services. “Due to the condition of the road, heavy buses cannot traverse it. And we do not have any provision for smaller vehicles,” an ASTC official told GPlus.
The absence of proper transport infrastructure has left students with limited options. Walking long distances uphill is time-consuming and exhausting, especially for those with early morning classes. Hitchhiking, while unconventional, has become the most viable option for students, helping them reach their destination quickly and without much expense.
However, this growing trend has raised significant safety concerns among citizens and parents. Many fear the risks associated with young students, especially female ones, accepting lifts from strangers. Incidents of harassment, while unreported so far, remain a potential threat.
The lack of helmet use among pillion riders further compounds the danger. Despite regular road safety awareness campaigns, many motorcyclists and their hitchhikers continue to flout helmet rules, exposing themselves to the risk of severe injuries in case of an accident.
“The authorities have turned a blind eye to this problem. What if something happens to these students? Who will take responsibility?” questioned a local resident on the condition of anonymity.
Interestingly, a unique camaraderie has emerged among regular commuters and the students who depend on them. Over time, many have developed informal arrangements, synchronising their schedules to ensure a reliable ride. For some, this unspoken bond has become a comforting aspect of an otherwise challenging commute.
“It’s not just about getting a lift; it’s about mutual trust. I usually wait for the same person because I feel safe with them,” shared a nursing student who frequently hitchhikes to her classes.
While these arrangements provide a temporary solution, they also highlight the gap in public transportation planning for key areas like Narakasur Hill, which houses a vital medical institution.
Local residents are calling for urgent intervention to address this issue. Suggestions include introducing smaller, more agile public transport options, such as shared autorickshaws, or electric vehicles that can easily navigate the narrow and steep roads.
“This is a serious gap in urban planning. How can such an important institution lack basic connectivity? It’s time the authorities step up,” said a commuter.
Additionally, the introduction of a regulated carpool system or college-sponsored transportation could alleviate the risks while providing a sustainable solution for students. The authorities must also emphasise road safety measures, including mandatory helmet use for all two-wheeler commuters.
Until concrete measures are taken, students on Narakasur Hill will continue to navigate this unique blend of necessity and risk, highlighting the urgent need for better transport solutions in Guwahati’s challenging terrains. The onus now lies on the authorities to ensure the safety and convenience of students while addressing the underlying infrastructural deficiencies.