New Guwahati Bridge Transforms into Social Hub After Inauguration
In Guwahati, a day after the grand inauguration of the new Kumar Bhaskar Verma Setu, residents from both the Guwahati and North Guwahati banks enthusiastically streamed onto the 1.24-kilometer bridge on Sunday. This influx of people quickly transformed the structure into a vibrant social hub, buzzing with activity and excitement.
Scenic Beauty and Historic Experience for Visitors
From morning walkers and cyclists to senior citizens and curious youngsters, many paused midway on the bridge, leaning against the railings to admire the mighty Brahmaputra River flowing beneath. Subodh Kumar, a Guwahati resident, expressed his awe, saying, "This feels historic. We have always admired the Marine Drive in Mumbai, but walking above this vast river and witnessing both the sunrise and the sunset is an entirely new and unforgettable experience." Similarly, Sneha Roy, a student at a private college in North Guwahati, shared, "It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For years, we have relied on ferries and long detours to reach our homes. Today, we are walking with the promise of easier access to the city's commercial heart."
Connectivity Boost and Vehicular Movement Timeline
As a crucial link for connectivity in the northeast, the bridge is set to significantly improve transportation. Vehicular movement on the bridge is scheduled to begin in March, allowing people to fully experience its scenic beauty and functional benefits. The bridge, inaugurated on Saturday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been constructed at a substantial cost of Rs 3,030 crore, underscoring its importance in regional infrastructure development.
Emerging Concerns Over Civic Sense
Amid the celebrations, several visitors raised concerns about a lack of civic sense. They pointed out that within hours of the inauguration, some people had begun littering the area with plastic bottles and even leaving spit stains on the railings. This issue highlights the need for public awareness and maintenance efforts to preserve the bridge's cleanliness and aesthetic appeal.
Local Vendors Capitalize on Crowd Surge
Tea vendors soon appeared on the scene with flasks of tea and packets of snacks, sensing the surge in crowd. Their presence added to the lively atmosphere, providing refreshments to the many visitors enjoying the new landmark. This spontaneous economic activity reflects the bridge's immediate impact on local commerce and community engagement.
Overall, the Kumar Bhaskar Verma Setu has not only enhanced connectivity but also become a focal point for social interaction in Guwahati, with its full potential set to unfold as vehicular traffic commences next month.
