GUWAHATI: The path towards VIP road from the Six-mile junction is under the radar of angry citizens as both sides of the road are in a pathetic condition.
Moreover, the portion below the extended arm of the Six-mile flyover which leads to Panjabari often remains in a gridlock.
The traffic point of the Six-mile junction, though equipped with ITMS is defunct.
This leads to a situation where commuters are often riddled with a safe passage within the city.
The lives of motorists are often at stake when an excess of vehicular movement is witnessed.
Moreover, some relief is provided by hand-waving traffic officials but even that is questionable as the officials are not present throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the staggering increase in e-rickshaws and passenger carriers is raising concerns for the residents.
The casual mindset of drivers and negligence of traffic law is a common sight near the Six-mile area.
While speaking to GPlus, a traffic official from Dispur Police Station said, "Initially the traffic signals were functional, but that added on to the congestion. Now, we assign officials to navigate the traffic. However, due to the lack of manpower in the department, the location remains vacant when special duties are assigned."
Sarfraz Ahmed, a resident of Chandan Nagar while expressing discontent to GPlus, said, "This portion is very challenging. There are vehicles plying literally from all sides. The slightest miscalculation might lead to heavy damage. Why was the taxpayers' money utilised in setting up traffic signals if it is now not in use? We are just seeking solutions."
Apart from frequent traffic congestion, pedestrians often complain about the unhygienic state of the footpaths as several vendors occupy the space and litter it daily.
Dhritimoy Sarma, a resident of Panjabari while sharing with GPlus said, "The entire portion near the fish market is in a deplorable condition. The footpath reeks of urine, faeces, and all kinds of rotten waste. It is very nauseating. Why does the authority not take strict actions against it?"
According to locals, several vendors exploit the spaces and pollute them. Though workers from Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) clean the area daily, even then the waste left behind, creates a foul smell which is unhealthy.
While speaking to GPlus, an official from GMC stated, "We often go for inspection and evict the vendors from the footpaths and sides of the road. But, once we're gone they set up the shops again. It is not possible to conduct regular inspections as we are busy with prior commitments. But, we are still discussing the issue with the higher officials. Hope we figure out a solution soon."
While the problem persists, residents of the locality are eagerly waiting for a mandate that will uplift the condition of the busy junction.