INTRO: Street lights installed along National Highway 27 are faulty and threaten to topple over
Residents and commuters alike have raised concerns over the installation of street lights along the national highway NH-27, particularly in the areas of Lalmati and Gorchuk.
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The installation, which was meant to enhance safety and visibility for motorists and pedestrians, has instead become a cause for alarm due to several flaws observed in the execution.
A resident, who frequently travels along the highway, noted, "The street lights installed along this stretch seem to be improperly secured. This causes them to sway and vibrate even during moderate wind conditions. This not only compromises their stability but also possesses a potential hazard to everyone using the highway."
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Another resident echoed similar sentiments, expressing worries about the safety implications of the poorly installed street lights. "As someone who commutes on this highway daily, I've noticed that the lights flicker and dim frequently, making it difficult to see the road ahead, especially during night travel. It's a safety concern that needs urgent attention."
The concerns extend beyond just the functionality of the street lights.
It appears that the installation was carried out without adherence to proper techniques or standards, leading to subpar performance and structural integrity.
This has left residents questioning the quality of workmanship and oversight during the installation process.
In response to these concerns, officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) have provided insights into the situation.
A representative from NHAI emphasised their accountability in setting up the poles along the entire stretch of the highway, but clarified that the connections are managed by other departments.
They assured that standard procedures were followed regarding the erection of the poles.
Similarly, an official from GMC highlighted the specific instructions regarding the connection of lights on the highway, noting that earlier, it was managed by the department along with the Public Works Department (PWD).
However, it remains unclear why the installation process did not meet the expected standards, raising questions about oversight and accountability.
The concerns raised by residents and officials underscore the need for immediate action to address the issues with the street lights on NH-27.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users should be a top priority, requiring collaboration between relevant authorities to rectify the situation promptly.
While speaking to GPlus, Ramen Nath, a resident of Lalmati said, "After the highway was declared open, it has been dangerous for pedestrians. For those who have to cross roads for shopping cannot lose focus. A slight mistake might cost their lives. The highway also doesn't have any foot over bridge or subway for pedestrians at crucial points. Lack of proper lighting further accentuates the safety issues."
Residents are hopeful that their voices will be heard, and necessary steps will be taken to rectify the flaws in the installation of street lights, restoring confidence in the safety of the highway for everyone who relies on it for their daily commute. Until then, vigilance and caution remain essential for navigating the poorly lit sections of NH-27.