Ludhiana residents allege RUB poorly lit, demand sufficient lighting

The newly-constructed railway underbridge (RUB) on Pakhowal road, connecting Sarabha Nagar intersection to Canal Bridge, lacks adequate lighting, posing a significant risk to commuters. Despite being a part of the Ludhiana Smart City Limited’s project, the underbridge remains poorly lit, sparking concerns among residents.

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Upendra Sharma, a Punjab Mata Nagar resident while highlighting the issue said, “The underpass is eerily dark, even during daylight hours. The approach roads are covered with plastic sheets, further reducing visibility.The MC officials have the view that railway authorities are responsible for installing streetlights in the underbridge, as it falls under their jurisdiction.”

Residents and commuters were urging authorities to install a 24x7 lighting system to enhance safety, said Sharma, who is also advisor to the Punjab Mata Nagar Welfare Society adding, “Visibility is a major concern, even during the day. Vehicles approach at high speeds and the sudden darkness within the underbridge poses a significant accident risk. I have been raising this issue since long time but to no avail.”

Another resident of Pakhowal road, Raman Arora, said two-wheeler riders were struggling to navigate the drainage line within the underpass. “During rain, rainwater accumulates in the RUB, commuters especially the two-wheeler riders face a tough time to cross the waterlogged stretch. Another thing that poses challenge for the commuters is the lack of effective lighting. Authorities must prioritise commuters’ safety and address these concerns promptly,” Arora added.