Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday inaugurated the Maharaj Prithu Flyover connecting Dighalipukhuri and Noonmati in Guwahati and dedicated it to the public.
The 4.2-km long four-lane flyover has been constructed at a cost of ₹852.68 crore. The state government approved the project on June 26, 2023, and the foundation stone was laid on November 16, 2023. Although the construction timeline was 36 months, the flyover was completed in 28 months.
The flyover has 129 pillars and its superstructure has been built using steel girders.
Speaking at the event, Sarma said the flyover will significantly reduce traffic congestion on the busy GNB Road corridor and help cut travel time for commuters. He added that the project was completed in a record time due to advanced planning, technical expertise and continuous supervision.
The Chief Minister said the flyover will eventually have a rotary near the Guwahati Club and will connect with the Ulubari flyover in the future. The government is also undertaking additional development works in the area, including concrete drainage from Dighalipukhuri to Noonmati, road repairs and installation of modern lighting.
Sarma said GNB Road is one of the busiest roads in the city with thousands of vehicles passing through daily. The new flyover will reduce pressure on the road below and also help lower air and noise pollution.
He added that the flyover has been named after Maharaj Prithu as a tribute to Assam’s historical legacy.
The Chief Minister also said the flyover will remain open for pedestrians for three days so that people can walk on it and experience the new infrastructure. It will be opened for vehicular traffic from the morning of March 14.
Sarma further said the government is working on measures to address artificial flooding in Guwahati and will begin work on metro rail connectivity after completion of the ring road project.
Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, Lok Sabha MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, MLA Siddhartha Bhattacharya and Mrigen Sarania were also present at the programme.
