Diwali here, roads still not LED-illuminated

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, October 18

The Municipal Corporation has failed to change all ordinary street lights with LED lights in the city. At several places, even LED lights are not working.

Notably, the MC had assured to replace all ordinary street lights with LEDs by Diwali. Earlier this month, an MC panel had asked engineers to ensure the installation of LED lights in the city. 

Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) has been outsourced the repair and maintenance work of LED lights for seven years by the MC at a cost of Rs 50 crore. It will have to replace 50,000 existing conventional street lights with LED lights. Besides, about 10,000 new LED lights will be installed. “Around 32,000 lights will be replaced in a week,” said Ajay Raj, general manager of the firm. 

On non-functional LED lights, he said, “It does not mean that LED lights have developed some fault. At some places, wiring, underground cable or other electricity-related issues are being fixed.”

The worst hit areas are in southern sectors of the city. “Street lights are being replaced with LED lights. No other repair work is being done. Loose wires are still hanging. All lights should be made functional. I request the UT Administrator to take a round of the southern sectors in the night and see the state of affairs,” said Gurjusjit Singh, a resident of Sector 44. 

50,000 lights to be changed  

Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) has been outsourced the repair and maintenance work of LED lights for seven years by the MC at a cost of Rs 50 crore. It will have to replace 50,000 existing conventional street lights with LEDs. Besides, about 10,000 new LED lights will be installed.