Guwahati, Oct 13: The AT Road flyover, one of Guwahati’s busiest arterial routes, is rapidly becoming a daily hazard for commuters as large potholes and surface damage continue to worsen near its Bharalumukh entry point. What was once a key connector easing city traffic now resembles a neglected stretch, riddled with craters, cracks, and uneven surfaces.
Motorists say the road’s condition has deteriorated sharply over the past few months, leading to frequent near misses and minor accidents, especially for two-wheeler riders. During the monsoon, the problem worsens as rainwater conceals the potholes, making the stretch treacherous.
“Every day we risk falling or damaging our vehicles. It’s shocking that such an important flyover has been left in this state,” said a commuter who travels through the route daily.
Neglect, Delays, and Public Frustration
Despite repeated complaints from citizens, repair work has not yet been initiated. The damaged section, located at the flyover’s starting point near Bharalumukh, has become a choke point, slowing down traffic and endangering riders during rush hours.
A Public Works Department (PWD) official acknowledged that heavy water tankers using the bridge have significantly contributed to the damage.
“The condition of that portion is due to water tankers. Frequent passage and spillage have deteriorated it. We are considering substitutes such as metal plates or concrete blocks, but funds are also a factor — this year, funds haven’t been sanctioned,” the official stated.
A Key Artery Under Strain
The AT Road flyover serves as a critical link for commuters travelling between Bharalumukh, Santipur, and adjoining areas, carrying a high volume of both commercial and private vehicles daily.
However, the growing neglect and lack of timely maintenance have raised concerns about public safety and infrastructure longevity. Local residents have urged authorities to act swiftly before minor accidents escalate into serious incidents.
“We have seen patchwork repairs in the past, but they don’t last more than a few weeks. What we need is a permanent fix,” said a shop owner near the flyover.
The Road Ahead
While PWD officials cite fund constraints as the reason for delays, city residents argue that the situation reflects a broader issue of urban infrastructure mismanagement. With the festival season and tourist traffic adding pressure, experts have called for emergency maintenance measures and better regulation of heavy vehicles using the flyover.
- Location: AT Road Flyover, Bharalumukh, Guwahati
- Key Issue: Worsening potholes, uneven surface, risk to commuters
- Official Reason: Heavy water tankers and delayed funding
- Public Demand: Immediate repair before accidents escalate
