The long-awaited Guwahati–North Guwahati bridge, Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, will open for vehicular traffic from March 1, marking a major milestone in the city’s mobility expansion. The six-lane bridge over the Brahmaputra is expected to significantly ease congestion on the existing Saraighat Bridge.
Officials estimate that travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati could be reduced to around seven minutes once traffic begins on the new corridor.
Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, the new six-lane Guwahati–North Guwahati bridge, will open for traffic on March 1. Spanning 1.24 km as part of an 8.4 km corridor, it is expected to ease congestion on the Saraighat Bridge and reduce peak-hour travel time between the two banks to about seven minutes.
A Major Mobility Upgrade for Guwahati
The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu stretches 1.24 kilometres across the Brahmaputra and forms part of a larger 8.4-kilometre connectivity corridor.
For years, commuters travelling between Guwahati and North Guwahati have primarily depended on the historic Saraighat Bridge. Heavy traffic load, particularly during office hours, often resulted in long delays.
With the new bridge operational from March 1, traffic pressure on the existing route is expected to ease.
Why the New Bridge Matters
Daily commuters have frequently faced congestion on the Saraighat Bridge, with delays stretching beyond an hour during peak periods.
Authorities believe the new six-lane structure will:
- Decongest Saraighat Bridge
- Improve daily commute time
- Support smoother goods transportation
- Strengthen connectivity to North Guwahati institutions and residential areas
The bridge is part of broader efforts to modernise Guwahati’s transport infrastructure.
Traffic Strategy Ahead of Opening
With the opening date confirmed, city authorities are preparing traffic management strategies to ensure smooth vehicle movement once the bridge becomes operational.
Signage, lane management plans and coordination with traffic police are expected to guide motorists during the initial days.
Residents are advised to follow official traffic advisories to avoid confusion during the transition.
What Changes for Commuters?
Once operational, the new bridge could reduce travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to as little as seven minutes under normal conditions.
The improved connectivity is expected to benefit office-goers, students and commercial vehicles travelling across the Brahmaputra.
What Happens Next?
The bridge will formally open to vehicular traffic on March 1. Authorities may release additional route guidelines and usage instructions closer to the launch.
The opening marks a significant development in Guwahati’s urban mobility framework, with long-term implications for traffic distribution across the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu open?
The bridge will open for vehicular traffic on March 1.
How will it affect travel time in Guwahati?
Officials estimate that travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati could be reduced to around seven minutes.
