GUWAHATI: The Jalukbari Flyover has increasingly turned into an unofficial bus terminus, with long-distance buses routinely stopping on the bridge to board and drop passengers, worsening congestion and disrupting traffic movement.
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Buses were seen occupying up to three of the flyover’s four lanes, triggering traffic congestion along the crucial route connecting Guwahati to North Guwahati, Rangia, Nalbari, Barpeta, Mangaldai, Udalguri and Tezpur.
The situation has been further aggravated by the presence of makeshift vendors selling paan, gutkha and cigarettes directly on the flyover, adding to concerns over traffic management and road safety.
The growing congestion drew the attention of Transport Minister Charan Boro, who recently inspected the area and warned bus operators against using the flyover for parking.
“I have personally seen buses being parked on the Jalukbari flyover. Parking vehicles, or for that boarding passengers, on the flyover are not allowed,” Minister Boro told bus drivers and conductors during his inspection.
The minister futher said the Adabari Bus Stand would be re-dedicated for parking, boarding and deboarding of long-distance buses.
“If we totally stop parking vehicles on the Jalukbari flyover, traffic situation will invariably ease,” he added.
Meanwhile, a traffic police official from the Jalukbari division said enforcement measures would begin immediately to remove illegal vendors and parked buses.
“We were busy with Ambubachi Mela over the past few days. We will immediately ensure the flyover is not encroached by buses and vendors,” the official said.