Guwahati Library: Rs 51 Crore Facelift Stuck in Limbo

The district library in Guwahati, a crucial study area for students and job seekers, is operating with severely limited facilities. A proposed Rs 51-crore redevelopment project, intended to provide new reading spaces and amenities, has seen minimal progress nearly two years after its sanctioning.

Project execution by PWD (Buildings) is pending the library's relocation to a temporary site. Authorities are actively searching for a suitable space but have yet to secure one, causing the continued delay. The library normally attracts 100-120 readers daily.

Students report a significant decline in usable facilities, particularly the washrooms, with only one of four female toilets partially operational. This lack of basic amenities, including drinking water, has led some students to abandon the library for costly private study rooms, impacting their preparation for competitive exams. The library's upgrade was also mentioned in the 2025-26 budget speech, underscoring its planned improvements as directed by a high-level committee. However, until a temporary location is found, the current building remains in a state of disrepair, with no further expenditure on repairs planned due to its imminent demolition.