GUWAHATI: Amid the grand inauguration of the Bhagadatta II flyover at Rukminigaon on Sunday, a silent protest unfolded just a few hundred meters away at Pibco Point. The protest was led by residents of the flood-prone area, who gathered to voice their discontent over the absence of flood mitigation measures.
Approximately 70 locals held placards and posters, some of which read “Hey Bhagawan,” as they expressed their frustrations. The protest remained peaceful, with attendees quietly displaying messages that conveyed their exhaustion and feelings of helplessness regarding the persistent flooding issues.
One Rukminigaon resident articulated the community’s concerns to GPlus, stating, “Instead of addressing the flooding in Rukminigaon, they are building a flyover. How is that a solution? The monsoon is approaching, and we will be once again wading through knee-deep water.”
Another resident added, “Every time it rains, our homes and roads are submerged. We have sent letters to various departments, lodged numerous complaints. What good is a flyover if water floods the ground floor?”
Another participant emphasized the practicality of their demands, saying, “Flyovers may work for traffic, but for us, water invades our homes. We need proper drainage, not another ribbon-cutting ceremony.”
The newly constructed Bhagadatta II flyover, which took just over nine months to complete, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. While government officials view it as an essential part of Guwahati’s infrastructure development, locals argue it neglects the critical and ongoing problem of flooding.
Residents pointed out that Rukminigaon has endured consistent waterlogging during monsoon seasons for several years. Despite numerous complaints and promises, no long-term drainage or flood-control solutions have been enacted.
Commuters echoed these sentiments, asserting that while the flyover might alleviate traffic congestion, it fails to address the challenges faced at ground level. “What’s the point of building flyovers when we can’t even walk to our homes during the rains?” questioned one protester.
Original Source: https://www.guwahatiplus.com/guwahati/silent-protest-held-in-guwahatis-rukminigaon-over-flood-woes-amid-flyover-inauguration
Category: Guwahati
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Publish Date: 2025-07-07 08:35:00
