Non-functional streetlights raise safety concerns on Phagwara-Palahi bypass

Despite the Phagwara–Palahi Bypass road falling within the limits of the Phagwara Municipal Corporation, the streetlights installed along this crucial stretch have remained non-functional even after four years of the Aam Aadmi Party government’s tenure, raising serious safety concerns among commuters.

Locals pointed out that although new streetlights were installed on poles last November from Guru Ravidas Hospital on Palahi Road to the Palahi Bypass at a cost of Rs 5.50 lakh under the initiative of the AAP constituency in-charge, the lights have yet to be switched on.

Residents recalled that during the Akali-BJP government’s tenure, when Phagwara was upgraded from a municipal council to a municipal corporation, streetlights worth nearly Rs 25 lakh were installed along this road under the supervision of then Punjab minister Som Parkash, considering its importance as a key route connecting three districts and serving around a dozen schools, colleges, and hospitals.

The road also serves as a preferred route for commuters travelling towards Jalandhar and Chandigarh via the bypass, resulting in round-the-clock traffic.

Commuters expressed frustration, stating that the condition of the road has been left to fate and urged the government that if funds for road repairs are unavailable, at least the existing streetlights should be made operational.

People further noted that the newly appointed Mayor of Phagwara has business interests along this road, leading to public expectations that the long-pending issue of non-functional streetlights will finally be addressed. Cyclists and two-wheeler riders highlighted that travelling on this road at night has become extremely dangerous due to its dilapidated condition and complete darkness, which makes deep potholes invisible and increases the risk of accidents.

The road is used daily by residents of nearly 50 villages and also provides access to the Adampur Airport, underscoring its strategic importance. Locals claimed that several lives have already been lost due to accidents caused by deep potholes on this stretch, yet the authorities have failed to take corrective measures.

The road connects the main Civil Hospital of Phagwara along with several schools, colleges and private hospitals, but despite repeated incidents and fatalities involving motorcyclists, the municipal authorities have shown little urgency in restoring the streetlights or improving road safety, leaving commuters exposed to ongoing risks continued, following which police took legal action against the said shopkeepers.