Guwahati city experienced significant traffic disruptions on Thursday after both lanes of the Chandmari flyover were unexpectedly closed. The ongoing MRD Road flyover construction contributed to this sudden halt, leaving commuters caught off guard due to a lack of prior public notice. This incident highlights serious shortcomings in coordination among the Public Works Department (PWD), the contractor, and the traffic police.
While one lane had been partially closed for two weeks for connection work between the new flyover and the existing structure, the complete shutdown of both lanes led to severe delays and confusion for commuters, office workers, and local residents. Vehicles from RG Baruah Road were redirected to the already congested Rajgarh Road, further complicating the situation.
Additionally, traffic from Silpukhuri heading towards RG Baruah Road was rerouted through residential areas like Bamunimaidam Colony, converting typically quiet streets into heavily congested routes. Subsequently, traffic from RG Baruah Road was diverted to Zoo-Narengi Road, forcing vehicles bound for Chandmari to navigate narrow Railway Colony Road, exacerbating congestion on this tight passage.
Frequent stoppages at a nearby railway crossing added to the traffic chaos, transforming the area into a nightmare for commuters. Local residents and urban planners have criticized the contractor for neglecting basic safety protocols, while traffic police have struggled to manage the increasing gridlock.
A traffic officer shared the frustrations faced by authorities: “Managing this situation every day has become nearly impossible. Without proper planning and sufficient traffic staff, the roads quickly descend into disorder.” Commuters voiced their exasperation, with one stating, “How long will we remain stuck like this? It has become part of our daily routine, and we are exhausted and frustrated.”
Another commuter echoed these sentiments, describing the lack of signs and personnel: “No alerts or guidance, just constant gridlock. It feels like the authorities don’t care about commuters.” Issues extended beyond congestion, as dust from the construction site has become unbearable for many residents. One remarked, “Soon, Guwahati will compete with Delhi in terms of air quality index.”
Critics point to poor planning as the root cause of the ongoing distress. “We are simply being harassed in the name of development, with no consideration for our daily lives or safety,” stated another local resident. Residents of Rajgarh highlighted the impact on their narrow lanes, overwhelmed by traffic and construction dust. One resident lamented, “We are losing the beauty of the city and witnessing significant environmental degradation.”
In response to the chaos, authorities have instructed city buses to remain in the left lane, avoid overtaking, and maintain proper lane order to help alleviate congestion in Chandmari. Officials have also requested public cooperation to ensure road safety and the efficient progress of the flyover construction.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/guwahati/assam-chandmari-flyover-lanes-closed-guwahati-faces-severe-traffic-chaos.html
Category: Assam,Guwahati,Northeast News,Top News
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-01-31 10:01:00
