Jorhat's New Flyover: A Commuter's Nightmare
The Troubling Condition of AT Road
Daily commuters have labeled this road as the ‘Road to Hell’ due to its poor condition.
Jorhat, April 22: Despite recent improvements in infrastructure, a segment of the busy AT Road beneath the newly constructed flyover has become a significant issue for commuters, earning the nickname ‘Road to Hell’ reminiscent of the famous Chris Rea song.
This crucial stretch of road, located under the 1.27-km-long Maniram Dewan-Piyali Barua flyover, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 11 of this year.
Unfortunately, it has turned into a nightmare for those who travel daily. The recent rains, which have persisted for over a month, have worsened the already poor condition of the road, which has not been adequately repaired since the flyover's construction.
At night, the situation deteriorates further, with many two-wheelers reportedly losing control on the slick surface.
Residents expressed that while the flyover was intended to alleviate traffic congestion, equal attention should have been given to ensuring the road's usability, especially before the upcoming Assembly elections.
Local inhabitants have urged the district administration and relevant departments to take swift action to address the ongoing issues, emphasizing the risk of serious accidents stemming from the construction project.
Additionally, they have called for designated parking areas for street vendors and mini public transport vehicles that are currently occupying space beneath the flyover in a disorganized manner.
It is important to note that the flyover is part of the Chief Minister’s broader initiative to improve infrastructure in transportation, education, and health, as well as beautification efforts in Jorhat and the surrounding district.
Key developmental projects include the construction of two rail over bridges in the town, another at Cinnamara, a new integrated DC’s office complex, and a ‘Swaraj Udyan’—a museum and memorial park at the Jorhat Central Jail honoring freedom fighters, along with the ‘Lachit Barphukan Maidam Development Project’ at Gohaingaon, Meleng Lahdoigarh.