Bhubaneswar Faces Streetlight Crisis as Corporators Raise Concerns

Bhubaneswar is facing growing concerns over non-functional streetlights, with several parts of the capital reportedly plunging into darkness after sunset. The issue triggered a heated discussion at a Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) meeting, where corporators raised strong objections over the lack of proper streetlight maintenance.

Corporators created a ruckus during the meeting and protested over the condition of streetlights across the city. Some corporators reportedly sat on the floor while raising their concerns, demanding immediate action to restore lighting in affected areas.

27,000 Streetlights Affected

According to the concerns raised at the meeting, around 27,000 streetlights had been under the responsibility of two agencies previously engaged by the BMC. However, the agencies allegedly failed to carry out the required maintenance work, leaving a large number of lights non-functional and causing inconvenience to residents.

The BMC has now initiated a fresh tender process to replace the earlier agencies and appoint a new agency for streetlight maintenance. However, the process is expected to take nearly two months, raising concerns over the situation during the interim period.

Emergency Repairs Planned

To provide immediate relief, the BMC is reportedly planning to deploy personnel to carry out emergency repairs of some non-functional streetlights until the new agency takes charge.

The move is aimed at addressing critical locations and reducing inconvenience to residents during the transition period.

Mayor Raises Questions Over TPCODL

The Mayor also expressed strong displeasure over the functioning of Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL). He alleged that the power distribution company was not properly carrying out its responsibilities, including maintenance of electricity poles and substations.

The Mayor further alleged that TPCODL was not spending adequately on repairing damaged infrastructure and had left several roads dug up after carrying out work.

He said the company should regularly inspect the affected areas and take responsibility for maintaining its infrastructure.

The concerns raised at the BMC meeting have highlighted the need for better coordination between civic authorities, maintenance agencies and the power distribution company to ensure adequate street lighting and safer roads across Bhubaneswar.