HT Digital
Saturday, October 5: The people of Guwahati may face significant challenges during the upcoming Durga Puja festival, as recent reports from the Indian Meteorological Department suggest that the weather could take an unfavorable turn. According to the forecast, the city is expected to witness above-normal rainfall in the coming days, with temperatures likely to drop below average over the next two weeks. This prediction has raised concerns that the festive celebrations might be marred by rains, potentially affecting public participation in Durga Puja festivities and dealing a blow to local businesses that thrive during this time of year.
Guwahati, Assam’s bustling capital, has already been grappling with consistent rainfall over the past few days, leading to significant traffic congestion and commuter woes. The onset of the rains has already caused bottlenecks in several parts of the city, and with the prediction of more heavy showers, there is growing apprehension that the traffic situation could worsen in the days ahead. If the rain continues as forecasted, it is likely to hinder the ability of residents to move around freely, especially as they prepare for Durga Puja, one of the most awaited festivals of the year.
Related Posts:
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing construction of multiple flyovers across the city, which has exacerbated the traffic congestion issue. Key areas such as Rukminigaon, Bharalumukh, and the locality near BBCI have been particularly affected due to the construction work for the newly proposed flyover projects. While these infrastructure projects are intended to improve traffic flow in the long term, the construction work has created a temporary nightmare for commuters. The rains have only added to the chaos, as construction sites are often left muddy and littered with debris from the digging, making these areas not only difficult to navigate but also dangerous, particularly for two-wheeler riders.
The mud and debris at these construction sites often spill over onto the roads, reducing the available space for vehicles to maneuver. This creates a “chicken neck” effect in certain areas, where traffic is forced to squeeze through narrow passages, leading to frequent pileups and long delays. Motorists, particularly those on two-wheelers, have expressed concern over the increased risk of accidents due to the slippery road conditions at these sites. The combination of reduced visibility due to the rains and the constricted roadways at construction zones has heightened the danger for daily commuters, many of whom are frustrated by the lack of alternative routes.
Adding to the city’s traffic woes is the surge in the number of people coming from neighboring areas to Guwahati for shopping in preparation for Durga Puja. The festival season typically brings a massive influx of shoppers to the city’s commercial hubs, further straining the already burdened roadways. As more vehicles flood into the city, traffic congestion is expected to increase even more, especially in popular shopping districts. With limited parking options and congested roads, navigating through the city during peak hours may prove to be a significant challenge for both residents and visitors alike.
Business owners in Guwahati are also concerned about the potential impact that the weather and traffic issues could have on their sales during the festival season. Durga Puja is one of the busiest shopping periods of the year, with consumers flocking to markets, malls, and shops to buy new clothes, accessories, and festival essentials. However, with the forecasted heavy rainfall and worsening traffic conditions, many worry that shoppers may be deterred from venturing out, leading to a dip in sales. Small business owners, in particular, are apprehensive, as they rely heavily on the festival season to boost their revenue.
As the city braces for the dual challenges of inclement weather and ongoing construction projects, questions remain about how the authorities plan to address the traffic situation during the festival. The Guwahati Traffic Police have been working to manage congestion, but with the added complication of unpredictable weather, it remains to be seen whether their efforts will be enough to keep the city moving smoothly. There have been calls from residents for better traffic management measures, including the deployment of additional traffic personnel in high-traffic zones and the implementation of temporary diversions to ease the pressure on key roads.
With less than a week remaining before the Durga Puja celebrations begin, the people of Guwahati are hoping that the weather conditions will improve and that authorities will take proactive steps to mitigate the traffic situation. Many are optimistic that the rain may subside in time for the festival, allowing them to participate in the festivities without hindrance. However, if the heavy rains continue and traffic congestion worsens, the upcoming Durga Puja could be a trying time for the city’s residents and visitors.
In conclusion, the combination of above-normal rainfall, ongoing flyover construction, and the influx of festival shoppers has created a perfect storm of challenges for Guwahati in the days leading up to Durga Puja. While the festival is typically a time of celebration and joy, this year’s festivities may be overshadowed by traffic headaches and weather disruptions. As the city prepares for one of its most important cultural events, all eyes will be on the skies—and on the streets—to see if the weather improves and whether authorities can rise to the challenge of managing the situation effectively.
