GUWAHATI: The spaces under Guwahati’s flyovers, which could have been beneficial for the public, remain underutilised and mismanaged, residents complained.
Locals around the flyovers are not at all euphoric with the government’s approach to utilise the spaces for storing goods, a practice that falls short of the potential benefits these places could offer.
The condition of these public spaces under flyovers remains a point of concern. While some provide clean and hygienic facilities for users, others fall into disrepair and neglect, raising questions about the purpose and potential benefits of these underutilised areas.
Speaking to GPlus, a resident in Bhangagarh lamented the limited use of these areas and suggested that they could be better utilised for recreational purposes.
Cities across India have been using the spaces under the flyovers for various recreational purposes, including gardens and even clean public toilets.
However in Guwahati, most of the areas under the flyovers are fenced, and are used for storing construction materials. The GMC sweepers also store their brooms and other accessories in the fenced enclosures under the flyovers.
As the GPlus team investigated the situation under several flyovers in the city, it became evident that most of these areas were not being optimally used.
While some areas are designated for public toilets, their maintenance and utilisation leave people in despair.
Talking to GPlus, the caretaker of one such facility, Montu Kakoti, highlighted the poor state of the toilet due to a lack of attention from the authorities. To maintain hygiene, Kakoti personally hires cleaners at his expense and ensures the facility functions, even though it serves a limited number of people daily.
In contrast, the public toilet opposite the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authory’s office is maintained by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) in collaboration with the Lions Club of Gauhati. This facility, inaugurated in July 2022, sees around 500 daily users. However, its income from users falls short of maintenance expenses, resulting in a financial loss for the Lions Club of Gauhati, which bears the cost.
Speaking to GPlus, GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania stated, "We have intentions to develop playgrounds or other recreational areas, provided we find NGOs or agencies willing to oversee their management."
As these spaces could serve the community more effectively, residents hope for better management and utilisation by the concerned authorities.
