The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has launched an ambitious pre-monsoon drive, targeting the de-silting of 549 drains across the city by March next year. This initiative is a key part of the civic body's strategy to mitigate the recurrent problem of urban flooding during the heavy rains.
Major Infrastructure and Flood Mitigation Plans
Announcing the comprehensive plan, Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania stated that the corporation will spend a substantial Rs 132 crore in the first six months of 2026 on various development projects. These projects encompass road construction and the installation of streetlights across all 60 wards of the city.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Sarania detailed that the GMC will also ensure the completion of maintenance work for the city's five crucial river channels. These channels are vital as they carry stormwater from the bowl-shaped city into the Brahmaputra River. He further revealed that sluice gates and electric pumps have already been installed at Rukminigaon to enhance water management capabilities.
Waste Management and Circular Economy Push
In a significant move towards sustainability, the mayor highlighted efforts to strengthen the circular economy. Garbage transfer facilities at key locations like Fancy Bazaar, Purabi Dairy, and Adabari are being actively utilised to reduce overall waste and promote reuse. A major achievement in this sector is the processing of approximately 80% of the legacy waste at the Boragaon dumpsite.
To incentivize citizen participation, Sarania announced a 10% property tax rebate for residents who adopt rainwater harvesting and proper waste disposal systems at home. In a complementary measure, temples and religious events will be provided with a free water supply.
Recognition and Achievements in Cleanliness & Infrastructure
The mayor proudly highlighted Guwahati's remarkable progress in the Swachh Survekshan rankings, where the city jumped from the 402nd position to an impressive 44th place, earning the 'Promising Clean City' tag for 2025. Furthermore, Guwahati is now regarded as the cleanest capital city in northeast India.
Solid waste processing capacity has seen a boost, rising to 408.5 tonnes. The city also made notable strides in air quality, improving its national ranking from 38th to 21st in 2024-25. This was achieved through campaigns promoting mechanical and electric vehicles, dust control, tree plantation, and public awareness.
On the infrastructure front, Sarania confirmed the completion of the Ganeshguri Junction development and the commencement of work on VIP Road (Six Mile-Patharquerry). Several pedestrian-focused beautification projects on roads like ASEB Road, Rupnagar Road, Kali Mandir Road, and Ramakrishna Mission Road have also been finished. The civic body has completed 62 public auditoriums, 65 toilets, and 28 crematoriums or burial grounds across Guwahati.
