Guwahati: City bus sheds not up to expectations

STAFF REPORTER

Guwahati: A year after the much-publicised launch of modern bus sheds across Guwahati, residents are voicing strong criticism over the project’s poor execution and lack of promised amenities. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), which spearheaded the initiative under the Rs 300 crore infrastructure revamp, is now facing mounting public dissatisfaction.

The ambitious project aimed to modernise the city’s public transport infrastructure by installing state-of-the-art bus stops at 45 key locations. These new sheds were to be equipped with CCTV surveillance for public safety, real-time bus information panels, and detailed route maps to help commuters navigate the city more efficiently. However, residents report that none of these features have been delivered.

“It is really dangerous to travel at night. These modern infrastructures have been built for public convenience, which is good, but if there are no safety measures in place, then what’s the point?” said Arpit Kalita, a daily commuter.

Commuters, particularly in areas like Six Mile, complain that the bus sheds are in a state of neglect, with little to no regular maintenance. Many structures are dirty, poorly lit, and offer no clear information for users.

“The absence of this basic information not only causes delays but also discourages new passengers from relying on the city’s bus services,” said Barbie Gogoi, a college student, who added that newcomers and students often struggle to figure out routes and schedules.

The lack of implementation has not only undermined public trust but also exposed gaps in oversight and planning in urban infrastructure projects. With increasing calls for accountability, civic bodies are being urged to address the lapses and ensure the project meets the basic needs of the city’s growing commuter base.

As Guwahati continues to expand and urbanise rapidly, effective and user-friendly public transport remains a critical demand—one that residents now say has been left unfulfilled.

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