guwahati-s-new-setu-to-cut-travel-from-an-hour-to-7-minutes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the six-lane Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu over the Brahmaputra on 14 February, reducing travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati from 30-60 minutes to about seven minutes.

At present, commuters rely largely on the Saraighat Bridge or ferry services to cross the river. During peak hours, road travel via Saraighat often takes 45 minutes to an hour due to congestion, while ferry crossings are subject to weather conditions and fixed schedules. The new bridge is expected to provide a direct and faster alternative.

The 1.24-km extradosed bridge forms part of an 8.4-km-long corridor connecting the two banks. Built at an estimated cost of ₹2,600–3,300 crore, the structure is designed to ease pressure on existing river crossings and accommodate rising vehicular traffic in Assam’s largest city.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inspected the bridge on Wednesday ahead of the inauguration.

Also read: PM Modi to visit Assam on Feb 14: Himanta

“The Prime Minister will arrive in Guwahati on February 14 and travel up to the middle of the bridge to take in the view. The bridge will remain open for the general public till March 1, after which it will be accessible to all categories of vehicles,” Mr Sarma said.

The bridge is expected to significantly improve daily commuting for residents of North Guwahati, many of whom travel to the city for work, education and business. Officials anticipate reduced congestion on the Saraighat Bridge and improved access to industrial and residential zones on the north bank.

The state government plans to levy toll charges on commercial vehicles, including buses and trucks, to regulate heavy traffic and ensure smoother flow.

Mr Sarma also said discussions were under way to create a dedicated bicycle track on the bridge, promoting sustainable mobility.

With Guwahati expanding rapidly and traffic volumes rising each year, the new Setu is projected to serve as a long-term infrastructure asset, strengthening connectivity and supporting urban and economic growth in the region.