In a strategic move to alleviate congestion in the heart of Guwahati, the authorities are set to shift the bustling Fancy Bazar wholesale market to the emerging landscape of North Guwahati. This transition comes in tandem with the ongoing construction of the Bharalumukh-North Guwahati bridge and the initiation of the Ring Road within the city, marking a transformative era for Guwahati’s urban development.
Decongesting the Heart
As the iconic Fancy Bazar grapples with increasing urban traffic and space constraints, the city development authorities have put forth a proposal to relocate all wholesale markets in and around Fancy Bazar to North Guwahati. This strategic move aims to decongest the pulsating heart of the city, providing relief to both businesses and residents.
Logistic Park at North Guwahati
The proposed project envisions the construction of a state-of-the-art logistic park in North Guwahati, designed to accommodate all wholesalers currently situated in Fancy Bazar. The logistics park will not only provide adequate space but also ensure that wholesalers have access to essential amenities. While the proposal is in its initial stages, the specific location of the logistic park has yet to be identified.
GMDA’s Master Plan
In a broader initiative, the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) is formulating a comprehensive ‘master plan’ under the ‘local area plan’ for the region between Bharalumukh and Uzan Bazar. This master plan, now in its final stages, is a collaborative effort aimed at addressing the burgeoning issues of congestion and inadequate infrastructure.
Local Area Plan for Urban Transformation
Guwahati was selected as part of the Local Area Plan (LAP), a sub-scheme under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT). The selected area, spanning from Bharalumukh to Uzan Bazar, covers a total of 300 hectares. The LAP includes crucial details such as land use zoning, public and private open spaces, parking provisions, infrastructure development, environmental conservation, community facilities, and design and development standards.
Wider Roads and Urban Innovation
As part of the master plan, the city envisions wider roads and innovative urban structures, including arcades on buildings. These additions aim to not only ease traffic congestion but also enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of the urban landscape.
Public Involvement
In a bid to ensure inclusivity and transparency, the master plan is set to be discussed with the public. The completion of the area survey signifies a crucial step towards understanding the unique needs of the community.
As Guwahati braces for these transformative changes, the shift of the Fancy Bazar wholesale market to North Guwahati stands as a beacon of progress, heralding a new era of urban planning and development for the city. The ongoing initiatives, from the construction of vital infrastructure to the formulation of master plans, promise a brighter and more organised future for Guwahati’s evolving urban landscape.
