Guwahati: Soddy and quick road repair plagues city infrastructure

Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI: A drive through Guwahati paints a grim picture of the city's road infrastructure. Most streets are marred by rough patches, resembling a patchwork quilt rather than a properly finished surface.

A peculiar blend of bitumen and concrete blocks is evident on several stretches, resulting in a surface that is barely functional but far from ideal. This piecemeal approach to road repairs and construction highlights deeper systemic issues plaguing the city's infrastructure.

Frustration among residents is mounting as roads continue to deteriorate despite repeated complaints. "Travelling on Guwahati roads feels like a punishment. The uneven surfaces not only damage vehicles but also increase travel time and cause discomfort," said a resident from Hatigaon.

Another commuter from Hengrabari echoed similar concerns, stating, "We pay taxes just like citizens in other states, but the quality of roads we get is nowhere near theirs. It feels like we're being taken for granted."

The issue extends beyond inconvenience, impacting the city's overall development. "Without proper infrastructure, Guwahati will always lag behind other cities in terms of development and liveability," remarked another resident.

Despite these concerns, authorities continue to rely on short-term fixes rather than comprehensive repairs. Critics argue that patching potholes instead of resurfacing entire stretches only prolongs the cycle of deterioration. A Public Works Department (PWD) official, speaking to this reporter, cited financial constraints as a major roadblock. "Funds have always been an issue. Several contractors are yet to receive approvals for the estimates submitted to the authorities.

"These delays force contractors to compromise on the quality of materials and workmanship to manage expenses," the official revealed. As Guwahati grows, the demand for better road infrastructure becomes more urgent. Until a long-term solution is implemented, residents will continue to grapple with poor roads, impacting daily life and overall city development.

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