Infocity’s Darkness: An Irony in Odisha’s IT Hub
Within Odisha’s rapidly growing IT corridor, the Infocity of Chandaka Industrial Area—home to giants like Infosys, TCS, Mindtree, and several engineering and management colleges—remains paradoxically dark after sunset. Despite being under Ward No. 6 of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, this key industrial and commercial zone suffers from non-functional streetlights, leaving residents and workers to navigate the area in unsafe darkness.
Residents Raise Alarm Over Unsafe Conditions
Local residents report that the stretch from Sailashree Vihar Simon Temple Square to Infocity Traffic Square, nearly one kilometre long, has been shrouded in darkness for almost a month. Many streetlights have been non-functional for several months due to poor maintenance. “After filing numerous complaints to the administration, we are still in the same situation,” said a local IT professional, reflecting the frustration of many others. Pothole-ridden roads further exacerbate the dangers, leading to frequent accidents.
Heightened Risk for Women and Pedestrians
The darkness significantly increases the risk for women traveling late into the night. Criminals and drunkards exploit the unlit streets to commit illegal acts, as seen recently when a woman had her mobile snatched while walking in the dark. Pedestrians are forced to use the roads directly, as sidewalks are unsafe and unusable.
Administrative Apathy and Coordination Issues
A lack of coordination between various state agencies has stalled necessary repairs, despite Infocity’s crucial role as an economic powerhouse. The unresponsiveness of elected representatives has left residents frustrated and vulnerable.
Urgent Call for Action
Local communities are demanding immediate action from the BMC and concerned authorities to restore lighting before further incidents occur. They warn that neglecting the situation risks the very innovation hub that symbolizes Odisha’s technological future.