Quote: “These flyovers are supposed to make our lives easier, but the areas below them are literally wasted. Apart from parking spaces which we desperately need it has turned out to be a hub for street dwellers.”
Sandeep Sharma, Local business owner, Guwahati
Guwahati's rapid urban expansion has necessitated the construction of flyovers to combat traffic congestion and improve connectivity. However, the spaces beneath these towering structures have become a point of contention among citizens and urban planners alike.
From the moment the first flyover was proposed, debates have swirled around their design and execution. The conversation has intensified post-completion, particularly focusing on the underutilisation of the space beneath these flyovers. Despite the potential for these areas to serve as valuable public spaces, their development has been inconsistent and often overlooked in the initial planning stages.
Guwahati’s flyovers were constructed with the primary goal of easing traffic woes. While they have succeeded to some extent, the space beneath these structures has largely remained an afterthought. This has led to a significant delay in maximising the utility of these spaces, with additional construction projects frequently initiated only after the flyovers themselves are completed.
The Public Works Department (PWD), responsible for the construction of these flyovers, typically does not include comprehensive plans for the areas beneath in their initial blueprints. This oversight has resulted in a fragmented approach to urban development. Instead of integrating the construction of ancillary infrastructure such as public toilets and event platforms into the original projects, these amenities are added in piecemeal fashion, further consuming time and resources. The only facility which is provided are parking spaces.
The lack of foresight in planning has turned what could be vibrant community spaces into neglected and underused areas. In many parts of the world, the spaces beneath flyovers have been transformed into parks, sports facilities, open-fitness centres and cultural venues. These developments not only enhance the urban environment but also create new opportunities for community engagement and economic activity.
In Guwahati, however, the potential of these spaces remains largely untapped. The current state of these areas ranges from being used as makeshift parking lots to becoming havens for encroachments and informal settlements. This situation has prompted citizens and urban advocates to call for a more strategic approach to urban planning.
Citizens of Guwahati have mixed feelings about the flyovers. While many appreciate the reduced travel times and improved connectivity, there is a palpable sense of frustration about the underutilisation of the spaces beneath.
Sandeep Sharma, a local business owner, expressed his disappointment: “These flyovers are supposed to make our lives easier, but the areas below them are literally wasted. Apart from parking spaces which we desperately need it has turned out to be a hub for street dwellers."
“The space beneath these flyovers is a goldmine for urban development. Unfortunately, due to the lack of integrated planning, we are not making the best use of it. We need a cohesive strategy that includes these spaces in the initial planning stages itself," shared another concerned citizen.
In recent years, there have been some efforts to improve the situation. Several projects have been initiated to develop public amenities beneath the flyovers. For instance, some areas have been designated for parking, while others have been earmarked for the construction of public toilets. There are even plans to create platforms for community events and shows.
However, these initiatives are often implemented long after the flyovers are operational, leading to prolonged periods of inconvenience and construction-related disruptions for the public. This piecemeal approach has also resulted in a lack of uniformity in the development of these spaces, with some areas being more developed than others.
"To address these issues, urban planners and government officials need to adopt a more holistic approach to the construction of flyovers and the development of the spaces beneath them. This would involve incorporating plans for ancillary infrastructure into the initial design and construction phases of the flyovers. By doing so, the city can ensure that these spaces are utilised effectively from the outset," shared a retired engineering professor.
He further added that community involvement in the planning process can help identify the most beneficial uses for these spaces. Engaging with local residents, business owners, and other stakeholders can provide valuable insights into the needs and preferences of the community. This collaborative approach can lead to more innovative and practical solutions for utilising these areas.
Guwahati can draw inspiration from cities around the world that have successfully transformed the spaces beneath their flyovers. For example, in Mumbai, the space under the Tulpule flyover has been turned into a vibrant urban park with gardens, seating areas, and even a basketball court. In Bangkok, the spaces under several flyovers have been transformed into public parks and community markets.
Similarly, in Jorhat, Assam, a space beneath the first flyover on the Na-Ali road has been dedicated for a badminton court. Such inclusion uplifts the spirit of fitness and sports.
These examples demonstrate that with proper planning and community engagement, the spaces beneath flyovers can become valuable assets to the city. They can enhance the urban environment, provide much-needed amenities, and create new opportunities for social and economic activities.
Speaking to GPlus, a senior official from the PWD said, "We plan for parking spaces beneath the flyovers. The remaining revenue related operations/projects are under Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). After acquiring the NOC they plan whatever is essential for designated locations under the flyovers."
The flyovers of Guwahati have undoubtedly improved the city’s infrastructure and connectivity. However, the underutilisation of the spaces beneath them represents a significant missed opportunity. By adopting a more integrated and community-focused approach to urban planning, the city can transform these neglected areas into vibrant public spaces that benefit all residents.
The road ahead involves not just building flyovers but also bridging the gap between potential and reality. It’s time for Guwahati to mind the gap and turn these spaces into places of community, utility, and beauty.
