In an effort to update Guwahati’s transportation system, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) is building 45 brand-new, technologically advanced bus stations throughout the city. It is anticipated that some outdated bus stops would be replaced by these modernized ones, which will have features like WiFi, CCTV cameras, charging stations, dustbins, and fans. Enhancing commuter comfort and promoting a more effective public transportation system are the goals of Guwahati municipal corporation. Many locals wonder if these improvements are only going to be an infrastructure upgrade or if they have the capacity to resolve Guwahati’s ongoing traffic problems.
Guwahati Municipal Corporation Plans to Remove Old Bus Stops
A Guwahati Municipal Corporation Official has revealed that twelve old bus stop sheds will be removed as part of this plan, two of which have already been disassembled. After significant infrastructure projects, such as the flyover from Dighalipukhuri to Noonmati, are finished, the remaining buildings will be demolished. Two years ago, a thorough survey was also carried out in cooperation with the Guwahati Traffic Police and the Regional Transport Authority to determine the best sites for these new bus stops. These sites for building the bus stops were picked carefully taking in account a lot of factors. Guwahati Municipal Corporation belives these chosen sites have the potential to improve traffic flow and enable more efficient public transportation operations.
Concerns Over Focus on Aesthetics vs. Traffic Flow
However, some Guwahati residents are still not convinced in spite of these progressive amenities. Many think that by emphasizing comfort and infrastructure upgrade, a significant issue that has plagued the city for long—traffic congestion around bus stops—may be overlooked. “The flow of buses increases during peak hours, leading to severe congestion,” a local commuter said, voicing his concerns regarding the traffic congestion. Although the facilities are good, the primary function of bus stops should be to provide passengers with comfortable sitting and safe protection. While advertisements are OK, easy commuter access and efficient traffic flow should come first.
Traffic Jam and Bus Delays: A Growing Concern
Another daily commuter shared that they had seen buses waiting at the stops for five minutes or longer, which caused a buildup of traffic behind them. They mentioned that it was especially frustrating during rush hours when everyone was trying to get to their destination on time.
Managing Bus Timings and Traffic Flow
For many residents, the concern appears to be less about the bus stop design and more about effectively managing bus schedules and traffic around these areas. The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) has recognized the problem, admitting that long bus halts at certain stops have been an ongoing issue. An ASTC official stated, “We are aware of the complaints about extended waiting times at these stops. If the problem persists, we will take action by speaking with the drivers and assigning a team to ensure smoother traffic flow.”
Guwahati Municipal Corporation’s Challenge in Managing Traffic Congestion
A senior Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) official also acknowledged that managing traffic congestion near bus stops had been a challenge. The official explained that when buses stopped for too long, it often caused a ripple effect, leading to traffic backups and even blocking nearby intersections. They added that, although efforts were being made to address the issue, effectively managing it had been difficult, particularly when drivers did not adhere to time limits.
Future Prospects
The question of whether the additional bus stops would actually alleviate the city’s traffic problems or merely serve as another urban ornament is still up for debate as Guwahati awaits the completion of this renovation project.
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