Srinagar, Feb 24: Several areas in Srinagar, such as Downtown, Lal Bazar, Habak and Hazratbal, are grappling with defunct streetlights, forcing residents to navigate poorly lit roads after sunset. The lack of proper lighting has raised safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians, the elderly and women.
Non-functional streetlights have made it increasingly difficult for residents to step out after dark, whether for emergencies or to offer Maghrib and Isha prayers. Many locals have voiced frustration, citing the increased risk of accidents and security issues. “Walking on these roads at night has become unsafe. We have to rely on mobile phone flashlights to get around,” said Fayaz, a resident of Lal Bazar.
Sadiq, a resident of Hazratbal, expressed similar concerns. “The roads are already in bad shape, and without lights, it’s impossible to see potholes. I’ve twisted my ankle more than once,” he said.
For elderly residents and women, the situation is particularly challenging, with many hesitant to leave their homes due to safety concerns. “It’s difficult even to go to the mosque for prayers. I have to carry a flashlight every evening,” said Bashir Ahmad, an elderly resident.
Iqra, a student from Downtown, echoed these worries. “I have to walk home from my evening tuition classes, and it’s scary navigating these dark streets,” she said.
The issue has also impacted commuters, as many alleys and roads remain in complete darkness, making safe navigation difficult. “Bikers are at huge risk because they can’t see potholes or speed breakers in time,” said Adil, a commuter.
As frustration grows, residents are looking to authorities for swift action. Many have urged officials to expedite repairs and ensure regular streetlight maintenance, particularly with Ramazan around the corner, when people need to move safely during early morning and late evening hours for prayers. Additionally, they have called for a long-term solution, stressing the need for a systematic maintenance plan to prevent such issues in the future.
Addressing these concerns, a senior Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) official, requesting anonymity, stated that the primary issue lies with the streetlight connections, which were disrupted following the installation of smart meters and cabling by the Power Development Department (PDD). As a result, many streetlights were disconnected, leaving several areas in darkness.
“To restore their functionality, a piercing connector is required, which PDD must provide to SMC. Until that happens, there is no alternative solution to make them operational. We have raised the matter with PDD through multiple communications, and work is in progress,” the official said.
Meanwhile, a senior PDD official, also speaking anonymously, acknowledged the issue. “We are aware of the problem and are working on restoring connections to these poles. Repairs are being carried out in phases, and we aim to restore lighting in all affected areas soon,” the official said.
While officials from both departments assure that the issue is being addressed, residents remain hopeful that repairs will be completed soon. Until then, they have no choice but to manage with poorly lit streets.
