Assam Unveils 4.2 km Maharaj Prithu Flyover to Transform Guwahati

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Maharaj Prithu Flyover on March 14, 2024, marking a significant advancement in Guwahati’s transport infrastructure. Spanning 4.2 km and featuring four lanes, the flyover connects Dighali Pukhuri and Noonmati. The project involved an investment of ₹852.68 crore and was completed in just 28 months, ahead of the initial 36-month timeline.

The construction officially commenced after government approval on June 26, 2023, and the foundation stone was laid on November 16, 2023. During the inauguration, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the new flyover would significantly alleviate traffic congestion and reduce travel times for commuters across the city. He credited the project’s success to meticulous planning and the technical expertise of the teams involved.

Future Developments and Community Impact

Alongside the inauguration, Sarma announced several future enhancements aimed at improving local infrastructure. This includes the construction of a rotary at Guwahati Club and connections with the nearby Ulubari flyover. The government also plans to upgrade drainage systems from Dighali Pukhuri to Noonmati, repair existing roads, and install high-quality street lighting. Sarma pointed out that GNB Road, a heavily trafficked route, often experiences delays, and the new flyover is expected to ease the burden on this essential artery while helping to mitigate air and noise pollution.

The Chief Minister highlighted the flyover’s significance beyond its practical function, describing it as a symbol of “Bikash and Virasat,” or development and heritage. He named it in honor of Maharaj Prithu, a historical figure renowned for his valor in defending the region against foreign invaders, particularly Bakhtiyar Khilji. Sarma emphasized the importance of honoring historical figures through public infrastructure projects.

Community Engagement and Acknowledgments

Sarma also acknowledged the challenges faced during construction, particularly as it took place on a major roadway. He expressed gratitude for the local community’s support, which was essential for the timely completion of the project. The government has received approximately 12,000 applications for land rights and plans to allocate land pattas to residents soon.

In a unique initiative, the flyover will be accessible to pedestrians for three days prior to its official opening for vehicle traffic on March 14, allowing the public to experience its benefits firsthand. Additionally, Sarma discussed planned measures to address artificial flooding issues in Guwahati, along with the commencement of work on the city’s ring road and proposed metro rail connectivity once the flyover project is completed.

Key figures present at the inauguration included Jayanta Mallabaruah, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Bijuli Kalita Medhi, Member of Parliament, Siddhartha Bhattacharya, MLA, and Mrigen Sarania, Mayor of Guwahati Municipal Corporation. Their presence underscored the significance of this development in the broader context of urban advancement in Assam.