The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has launched an ambitious plan to transform the city's concrete flyovers into lush green corridors. This initiative aims to significantly boost urban greenery, combat air pollution, and improve the city's overall aesthetic appeal.
From Utilitarian Structures to Green Havens
GMC officials stated that the project focuses on flyovers that are currently purely functional and lack visual charm. Assistant Commissioner Ambarish Borah highlighted specific structures like the Ganeshguri, Ulubari, and Super Market flyovers as primary targets for this green makeover. The objective is to enhance their appearance and create a positive environmental impact.
"Our objective is to enhance their visual appearance, making it a feel-good thing," Borah explained. The civic body is moving beyond simple tree planting. They are developing a detailed project report (DPR) and plan to issue fresh bids to execute the vision properly.
Multi-Pronged Greening Strategy
The corporation is exploring several innovative interventions to bring this plan to life. The proposed measures include:
- Installing vertical gardens on flyover pillars.
- Growing creepers along the sides of flyovers using mesh wire for support.
- Placing tubs with plants on dividers in parking areas beneath the flyovers.
These strategies are designed not just for beauty. They are expected to help reduce dust levels and absorb atmospheric pollutants. Borah emphasized that proper maintenance is a key consideration alongside plantation. The GMC intends to engage experts with relevant expertise to ensure the project's long-term success.
"While 20 locations were initially identified, we are now working on a detailed project report, which will be followed by the issuance of fresh bids," Borah added, outlining the project's next steps.
Citizens Welcome Move to Cool the City
Residents of Guwahati have welcomed the proposed green corridors, hoping they will help mitigate the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon is caused by heat-absorbing concrete and tar, reduced natural cooling from lost vegetation, and waste heat from vehicles and air conditioners.
Environmental enthusiast Ankuran Pathak, a Guwahati resident, supported the initiative. "If there are more plants in an urban landscape, the heat will definitely reduce. One can clearly sense the change when moving towards the outskirts of the city," he said.
Pathak noted that while potted plants have some effect, larger trees can make a significant difference. He also stressed the importance of community involvement. "Proper maintenance is essential without which the impact will not be effective. For this to happen, citizens must come together and take up urban gardening, which can greatly improve the city’s environment," he added.
The GMC's plan represents a critical step towards making Guwahati a greener, cooler, and more livable city by creatively utilizing existing infrastructure for environmental benefit.
