There is a growing feeling of fear among commuters when it comes to navigating the flyover
GUWAHATI: Rumour has it that the Six Mile flyover may be demolished as it has to undergo repairs frequently. The flyover has once again come under scrutiny as restoration work disrupts the daily life of commuters and residents. Public criticism has been mounting over the perceived inefficiency of the Public Works Department (PWD) in maintaining the structure, which has required multiple repairs despite being a relatively new addition to the city’s infrastructure. Moreover, there is a growing feeling of fear among the commuters when it comes to navigating the flyover.
However, a PWD official ruled out any immediate talk of demolition while stating that nothing could be said for the future. Talking to GPlus, the official said, “Reports saying Six Mile flyover will be demolished are wrong as at present there is no such plan,” adding that the repair work will be completed before Advantage Assam 2.0 in late February.
The official informed of some hairline cracks on a pillar, and a grouting procedure is ongoing to treat it chemically and restore it. Additionally, PWD officials are thoroughly inspecting the flyover for other faults. Grouting is a process of injecting fluid materials like cement into soil or rock to fill pores and fissures.
The Six Mile flyover was a solution to ease traffic congestion along the busy GS Road corridor. However, since its inception, it has been plagued by structural and maintenance issues. This is the third time significant restoration work is being undertaken, sparking questions about the quality of its construction and the adequacy of previous repairs. In 2019, repairs were carried out to address surface cracks that had appeared less than three years after the flyover’s opening. Similar issues arose in 2022, with authorities citing "natural wear and tear" as the cause. However, residents and experts have repeatedly criticised the PWD for failing to implement long-term solutions and adopting what many perceive as a patchwork approach to maintenance.
Commuters are also scared to use the flyover.
A resident of Satgaon, Pranjeet Deka, talking to GPlus said, “The flyover is scary because of frequent repair work and I dread to use it these days.”
There are similar views from many commuters using the flyover every day. “I can wait in the traffic, but do not take the flyover these days,” said a resident of Six Mile.
The ongoing restoration has added to the woes of thousands of commuters who rely on the flyover daily. Traffic diversions have caused severe congestion on adjoining roads, including the GS Road and Beltola-Panjabari stretch. Frustrated residents of nearby areas like Six Mile and Panjabari have also reported dust pollution due to the construction activity.
As the grouting process continues, commuters and residents have no choice but to endure the inconvenience for the next few months. Whether this round of restoration will finally address the flyover’s persistent problems remains to be seen, but public patience is wearing thin.
