GUWAHATI: In the aftermath of the Durga Puja celebrations, residents of the city have noticed that the decorations along GS Road still linger, with some comparing them to the lights typically seen during Independence Day.
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Talking to GPlus, Gaurav Kumar Singh, a resident in Ulubari said, "It is quite confusing to see these decorations. The street lights are not even working properly, but these decorative lights make it look like we are celebrating Independence Day,” he said, commenting on the odd timing and theme of the lights.
The mismatch between the festive lights and the current season has left many scratching their heads, reflecting the general sentiment of confusion. While the decorations were initially welcomed as part of the grand festivities, their lingering presence, coupled with the city’s neglected street lights, has become a talking point.
Singh also pointed out the lack of functional street lights, a basic necessity for any urban area. The irony, he said, lies in how these decorative lights continue to shine brightly, while many streets remain in darkness due to malfunctioning streetlights.
Kakoli Das, a daily commuter at GS Road said, "What is this decoration? Most of the street lights in many lanes do not work, and yet they are putting up all these decorative lights on the poles? Where is the logic in that?” she asked, clearly irritated by what she sees as misplaced priorities.
She pointed out the contrast between the bright, decorative lights illuminating main roads and the pitch darkness many residential lanes are left in after sunset.
She also added, "The focus should be on addressing the more practical issue of fixing street lights that have not worked for months, rather than spending resources on decorative lighting."
"The city looks good, but what’s the point if basic amenities are ignored? Instead of putting up festive decorations, they should first think about the areas where street lights do not work. It iss a matter of safety and convenience,” Das further told GPlus,
Sangeeta Hazarika, a street vendor in Lachit Nagar talking to GPlus said, "Yes, the decorations are beautiful, but what about the street lights that have not been working for months? The authorities seem more concerned about how the city looks than solving practical problems."
As the decorative lights continue to shine on GS Road, the frustration among residents raises questions about the city’s priorities. While many appreciate the festive touch, citizens are urging authorities to address basic infrastructure needs, especially the non-functional street lights in several areas.
