Opinion: Sorry, but flyovers will never ease Guwahati’s traffic woes

On January 1, 2024, the Assam Government unveiled an ambitious plan featuring 8 Iconic Ticket Projects set to be launched in 2024. These projects, which includes flyovers, aim not only to address various issues but also to propel the state’s GDP from Rs 5.65 lakh crore in 2023 to Rs 6.38 lakh crore by 2024. Among these initiatives is the Dighalipukhuri to Noonmati Flyover, a 5.44 km elevated corridor projected to be completed by 2026 at an estimated cost of Rs 852 crore. 

On 1st February 2024, the foundation stone for another flyover was laid by the CM of Assam. This is for the 2.84 km long Lakhra road that will connect Birubari to Lalganesh and will be made at a cost of Rs 376 crore. This will be the 12th flyover in the city and many more are expected to be announced soon.

The Chief Minister asserted that these flyovers will end traffic congestion, keep the stretch of road traffic-free for the next couple of decades, provide ample parking spaces below and aid in economic growth. thereby underscoring the government’s belief in the economic benefits of investing in road infrastructure.