Potholes, poor lighting raise alarm in Rupnagar; GMC implements Rs 7.7-crore beautification work

Guwahati: Key roads in Guwahati’s Rupnagar, including ASEB Road linking GS Road to the state highway, are deteriorating amid alleged neglect, with residents warning of safety risks from missing lane markings, inadequate street lighting, and damaged or encroached footpaths.Residents who use the roads daily for work, school and markets described hazardous conditions, particularly during the monsoon. Ananya Dutta, a Rupnagar resident, said inadequate lighting and road damage have made travel unsafe. “Some roads are riddled with potholes, and there are many blind turns that, if approached carelessly, could lead to accidents. Additionally, some footpaths are no longer walkable, as parts of them have been illegally encroached upon,” she said.Nagen Das, whose shop is along RK Mission Road connecting to Rupnagar, flagged dangerous junctions and speeding. “The junction points in the area are kill zones, as cars speed away unchecked, overtaking from anywhere. There have been few minor accidents previously. We need proper road signages, along with proper dividers,” he said.Amid the complaints, the Guwahati Utilities Company Limited (GUCL), under the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), along with the town and country planning department, is implementing a beautification plan for Rupnagar and nearby roads. GMC mayor Mrigen Sarania said the project will cover ASEB Road, Rupnagar Road, Kali Mandir Road and RK Mission Road over about 2 km. “The total project cost is Rs 7.70 crore, and it will include new upgraded footpaths, railings and bollards to prevent encroachment, street lighting & CCTV coverage and safer junctions with zebra crossings,” the mayor said.He said the project aims to create a cleaner, safer and more accessible neighbourhood mobility corridor in the city.