Dibrugarh: In a bid to ease traffic congestion caused by the construction of two major flyovers, Dibrugarh district commissioner and District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) chairman Bikram Kairi has issued an order restricting the movement of heavy and medium motor vehicles within Dibrugarh city between 9pm and 6am.
Reason for the restriction
The order, issued on Thursday, comes as Dibrugarh, projected as Assam’s second capital, undergoes rapid infrastructure expansion. Two flyover projects are being built simultaneously within city limits, leading to increased traffic pressure.
Details of the flyover projects
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation stones for both flyovers on January 26, 2025. The 814-metre Mancotta Road Flyover, being constructed for Rs 84 crore, has progressed steadily, with nearly all pillars now complete. The 1.47-km Amolapatty Junction Flyover, estimated at Rs 158 crore, is currently in the groundwork stage, with construction expected to intensify in the coming months.
The public works department (roads) recently informed the district administration that work on the Amolapatty Flyover could worsen traffic congestion and increase the risk of road accidents. The ongoing construction of the Mancotta Road Flyover has already constrained the movement of heavy vehicles in and out of the city.
Consultations and decision
Following consultations with the Dibrugarh Traders’ Association and other stakeholders, the administration decided to impose time-based restrictions on heavy vehicle movement. Under the order, all trucks, heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) and medium motor vehicles (MMVs) may enter, move, load and unload within the city only between 9pm and 6am. All such vehicles must leave city limits by 6am without exception.
Heavy vehicles will be allowed to enter the city only through Chaulkhowa via the Dibrugarh Bypass. Dibrugarh traffic police has been directed to issue a detailed traffic advisory and route map.
Official statement
Kairi said the restrictions were necessary to ensure public safety and convenience. “The construction of two flyovers simultaneously within the city has considerably increased traffic pressure. These measures are aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow and reducing the risk of accidents in the city,” he added.
Exemptions and enforcement
Emergency and essential service vehicles may be exempted on a case-by-case basis, subject to approval from the additional district commissioner (transport). The Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation has been directed to install signage and no-parking boards for heavy vehicles at designated locations.
The Dibrugarh traffic police and the district transport officer have been instructed to ensure strict compliance. Violations will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.
