Srinagar, Sep 13: Despite multiple deadlines for installing streetlights in Srinagar, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has failed to install street lights in many areas, causing inconvenience to numerous residents.
The corporation claimed to have installed around 70,000 lights in the city, prioritizing main roads in the first phase. However, after completing the main roads, they extended installation to other city areas.
In most parts of Srinagar, including the city center and Karanagar where the SMC office is located, streetlights are lacking. Despite authorities’ claims that all smart city projects will be completed by April 15, they have not installed streetlights in significant parts of the city.
Neglected areas like GangBugh, Hyderpora, and its adjoining areas (ward no 15), Rajbagh, Khanyar, Hazratbal, Saida Kadal, Chanapora, and Bagh-I-Mehtab continue to face delays in streetlight installation despite multiple deadlines. Local residents in these areas are experiencing daily inconveniences, and the administration has not addressed their concerns.
A senior official told Rising Kashmir that they have completed approximately 55% of the areas in the first phase and plan to complete all areas in the coming two months. The corporation is putting forth its best efforts to finish this project within the given timeframe.
The official stated that around 50,000 lights will be installed in the next two months, covering every dark spot and other areas, including lanes and bylanes. They assured the public that no corner of Srinagar would be left without lights.
When asked about existing lights that are defunct in some areas, the officer explained that they promptly address complaints. They have resolved approximately 15,000 complaints till now.
“In the Batmaloo area, dozens of lanes are without streetlights, and existing lights are non-functional, causing inconvenience to residents during late nights and early mornings,” Shakir Ahmad a local resident said.
Ahmad mentioned that for the past two years, top officials of the corporation have assured residents that lights would be installed, but despite several deadlines passing, the installation has not taken place.
