Guwahati, the bustling gateway to the Northeast, serves as a cultural, economic, and administrative hub. Its rapid urbanisation and growing population demand a robust and efficient public transport system. However, the city is currently grappling with the challenges of congestion, pollution, and insufficient transport infrastructure. The need for enhanced public transport services that are affordable, reliable, and sustainable has never been more pressing. Addressing these needs could significantly improve the quality of life for residents while reducing the environmental footprint of urban mobility.
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Public transport services in Guwahati consist primarily of buses, shared auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs, and private vehicles. The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) operates a network of buses, which forms the backbone of public transport in the city. However, the coverage and frequency of these services remain inadequate, forcing citizens to rely on private vehicles or shared autos for daily commutes. This reliance on personal and semi-private modes of transport has led to an alarming increase in traffic congestion and air pollution in recent years.
One of the key challenges facing public transport in Guwahati is the lack of an integrated and efficient system. Unlike metropolitan cities with comprehensive metro rail or suburban rail networks, Guwahati relies heavily on surface transport. Although there have been discussions about introducing metro rail services, the high cost and lengthy implementation timeline have hindered progress. This gap in infrastructure underscores the urgency of investing in alternative solutions, such as intercity rail, walkways, and community transport systems.
Intercity rail services could play a transformative role in addressing Guwahati’s mobility challenges. The city already benefits from its position as a major railway junction, connecting the Northeast with the rest of the country. However, this potential remains untapped for local urban transit. Introducing a network of suburban trains linking Guwahati with its outskirts—such as Rangiya, Baihata, Sonapur, and Changsari—could ease the pressure on the city’s core by providing a reliable commuting option for residents in the metropolitan region. Such services would not only reduce travel time but also decrease the dependence on private vehicles, thereby alleviating traffic congestion.
Walkways and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure are equally critical for a sustainable urban mobility plan. Despite Guwahati’s growing population, pedestrian facilities remain limited. Sidewalks are often encroached upon or poorly maintained, making walking a perilous task for residents. Developing a network of well-maintained and shaded walkways, especially in commercial areas and near educational institutions, would encourage citizens to adopt walking as a mode of transport for short distances. Walkways could also be integrated with existing and proposed transport hubs to create a seamless commuting experience. Moreover, the promotion of walking not only reduces vehicular emissions but also contributes to better public health by encouraging physical activity.
Community transport services, such as electric buses and shared shuttle services, could bridge the gap between existing public transport options and the mobility needs of the city’s residents. Electric buses, in particular, offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles. ASTC’s recent initiatives to introduce electric buses are a step in the right direction, but the fleet needs to be expanded significantly to meet the city’s growing demand. Shared shuttle services could complement these efforts by connecting neighbourhoods to key transport nodes, such as railway stations, bus terminals, and markets. These services could be managed through digital platforms to ensure efficient route optimisation and real-time tracking.
Another critical aspect of improving public transport in Guwahati is the integration of digital technology. Smart transport systems that leverage mobile applications, GPS tracking, and automated ticketing can enhance user experience and operational efficiency. A unified transport app could allow residents to plan their journeys across multiple modes of transport, access real-time updates, and make cashless payments. Such innovations would not only make public transport more user-friendly but also attract more citizens to shift away from private vehicles.
The role of cycling in urban transport also warrants attention. Despite its potential as a zero-emission mode of transport, cycling remains underutilised in Guwahati. The absence of dedicated cycling lanes and parking facilities discourages residents from adopting this eco-friendly option. Establishing a network of cycle tracks, particularly in residential and institutional areas, could promote cycling as a viable alternative for short commutes. Additionally, public bicycle-sharing schemes could be introduced to provide last-mile connectivity, further reducing dependence on motorised transport.
Parking management is another pressing issue that impacts public transport efficiency. Illegal parking on roadsides exacerbates traffic congestion and reduces the efficiency of buses and shared autos. Implementing stringent parking regulations and developing multi-level parking facilities in congested areas could address this problem. Revenue generated from parking fees could be reinvested in improving public transport infrastructure, creating a self-sustaining model.
The success of any public transport initiative depends on active citizen participation and awareness. Campaigns promoting the benefits of public transport and sustainable mobility could encourage more residents to embrace eco-friendly commuting options. Schools and colleges could play a pivotal role in instilling a culture of sustainable transport among the younger generation. Similarly, partnerships with private stakeholders and NGOs could amplify the reach and impact of such initiatives.
Environmental sustainability should remain at the core of all transport planning in Guwahati. The city’s burgeoning air pollution levels and carbon emissions necessitate a shift toward cleaner technologies. In addition to electric buses, investments in renewable energy sources to power transport systems could further enhance the city’s green credentials. Incentives for electric vehicles, both public and private, could accelerate the transition toward a low-carbon transport ecosystem.
The importance of equitable access to public transport cannot be overstated. Transport systems should cater to all sections of society, including the elderly, differently-abled individuals, and economically disadvantaged groups. Infrastructure upgrades, such as wheelchair-friendly buses and stations, as well as subsidised fares for low-income residents, could make public transport more inclusive. This would not only ensure social equity but also foster a sense of community ownership and pride in the city’s transport systems.
In conclusion, the challenges facing Guwahati’s public transport system require a multi-pronged and inclusive approach. The introduction of intercity rail services, the development of pedestrian-friendly walkways, and the promotion of community transport are critical steps toward creating a sustainable urban mobility framework. Investments in digital technology, cycling infrastructure, and parking management could further enhance the efficiency and appeal of public transport. However, the success of these initiatives depends on strong political will, adequate funding, and active citizen engagement. By prioritising sustainable and equitable transport solutions, Guwahati can transform its mobility landscape, setting a benchmark for other cities in the region. Such efforts would not only improve the quality of life for its residents but also position Guwahati as a model city for sustainable urban development in India.
(The author is a science journalist, sustainability advocate, former Director of Assam Seed & Organic Certification Agency, and Assam’s Ex-Joint Director of Agriculture. All views and opinions expressed are author’s own)