January 22, 2026

Guwahati has several low-lying areas and is prone to flooding even in smart showers. But low level of areas is just one thing. The city is suffering from apathy from its municipal body on the one hand and an absolute lack of civic sense on part of its citizens on the other. While the municipal body has abrogated its responsibility to keep the city clean – apart from high profile areas – the people think nothing of clogging the drains with assorted garbage, including non-biodegradable plastic. The images provided here narrate the story louder than any words can ever do.



Open drains, refuse piled up. Where will the water go?

To be a smart city, Guwahati needs to infuse its citizens with the spirit of cleanliness. Plastics need to be banned. Refuse needs to be collected and disposed of daily, from arterial roads in residential and commercial areas, for they are the ones that clog the drains. The GMC needs to work properly.

Neon signs, spanking malls and big cars will not make Guwahati a smart city. Smart people will.