Guwahati Metro Rail project remains a dream on the horizon

Guwahati, India (Metro Rail Today): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently addressed the questions surrounding Guwahati's delayed metro transport system, shedding light on the city's future plans for metro connectivity. Speaking during the inauguration of the Nilachal Flyover in Maligaon, Chief Minister Sarma explained the unique challenges and forward-looking strategies that will shape the city's metro network.

One of the central issues highlighted by the Chief Minister is the spacing between metro stations, with a minimum of 3 kilometers separating them. Guwahati's urban landscape, with its narrow layout, poses challenges for the conventional metro rail system. Sarma provided insights into a novel solution - the development of a 6-lane highway connecting Baihata Chariali, Narengi, Kuruwa via Jagiroad to Dispur. Once completed, this ring road will serve as the foundation for the metro system, allowing trains to operate above it. This innovative approach will enable seamless connectivity for Guwahati residents, as metro trains enter and exit the city through this ring road.

With these plans in motion, Chief Minister Sarma expressed confidence in the state government's preparedness, emphasizing that they have laid the groundwork for the city's future development up to the year 2030.

Reflecting on his own childhood memories, the Chief Minister recounted how Guwahati has historically been known as the "Gateway of Northeast India." However, he aspires to elevate the city's status further, aiming to transform it into the "Gateway of Southeast Asia." This ambitious vision underscores the determination to reach new heights in urban development.

The journey toward realizing the Guwahati metro system has seen several milestones. In January 2016, the Feasibility Report and Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Guwahati Metro Phase 1 were prepared by Rail India Technical and Economic Service Limited (RITES). Subsequently, on February 26, 2016, the DPR was approved, along with the establishment of Guwahati Metro Rail Corporation Limited (GMRCL) to oversee the project's execution.

January 2017 witnessed a review of the project by the state cabinet, leading to modifications in the DPR. These changes included the addition of new lines connecting Dharapur with Guwahati Airport and North Guwahati with AIIMS, all integrated into Phase 1.

As of March 2020, RITES was tasked with preparing a Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) & Alternative Analysis (AA) Report for Guwahati. Upon the approval of these reports, the DPR for Guwahati Metro will be adjusted and finalized accordingly.

The Guwahati Metro envisions a vast urban Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS), spanning 61.40 kilometers with four lines and 54 stations to serve the city.

It's essential to note that metro projects require thorough evaluation and significant capital investment. Social benefits, financial feasibility, urban growth, commuter convenience, and other factors play pivotal roles in justifying the need for a metro system.

While the Guwahati metro rail remains a dream on the horizon, the city's growing population and evolving urban landscape make it imperative to plan for a metro system. Although the road ahead may be long, there's no doubt that the "Gateway to Northeast India" deserves a metro system that will connect its diverse communities and fuel progress.