Guwahati: The city is undergoing extensive beautification work, with various government departments joining hands to spruce up major roads, flyovers, and public spaces ahead of a likely visit by the Japanese Prime Minister in the first week of July for a summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Purple City Initiative
Among the ongoing developmental works, the Ulubari Flyover is currently being painted purple as part of the government's initiative to transform Guwahati into a “Purple City”. Officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) said repainting and beautification works are being carried out on road and flyover dividers.
Enhancements Along Key Corridors
Extensive development and beautification work is also underway along the Guwahati-Shillong Road corridor. As part of these improvements, several flyovers, including the prominent Ganeshguri Flyover, have undergone aesthetic enhancements. The concrete dividers on these flyovers have been freshly painted, giving the structures a cleaner and more attractive appearance. In addition, plants have been installed along the central median sections of the flyovers, contributing to a more pleasant urban landscape.
“The department is undertaking repainting work on the roads and flyovers, and decorative planter boxes are being installed along the flyover dividers ahead of the high-profile visit,” said PWD executive engineer Bhaskar Bhagawati. He added that work is also progressing in the Chandmari area, where efforts are focused on completing the remaining portions of the flyover project. As part of the finishing works, protective grills are being installed to enhance safety and improve the overall appearance of the structure. Development and organisation of designated parking spaces are also being carried out.
Municipal Corporation's Role
Meanwhile, Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) mayor Mrigen Sarania said, “The Guwahati Municipal Corporation is primarily focusing on cleanliness and sanitation efforts across the city. Intensive cleaning drives are being carried out on major roads, and action is being taken to remove unauthorised food carts and encroachments along the streets as part of the preparations.”
He added that the Guwahati Utilities Company Limited (GUCL) is also repairing streetlights across the city.
Public Reaction
Residents have largely welcomed the initiative, noting that the fresh paintwork and greenery have noticeably improved the appearance of several areas. Some, however, expressed hope that such maintenance efforts would continue even after the visit and become a regular feature of urban upkeep.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the upcoming visit as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the state, adding that the ongoing developmental and beautification works are being undertaken in view of the occasion.
