Sambalpur: Streets of Sambalpur Left in Darkness; Over 200 Streetlights Not Working
Sambalpur: Various streets across Sambalpur city, from Budharaja to Bhimabhoi Road, Lakshmi Narayan Lane, Sakhipada, and Mudipara, are facing a widespread issue of non-functioning streetlights. Even major landmarks like Mahanadi Bridge and the railway overbridge remain unlit. Despite repeated complaints, more than 200 streetlights under Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) are yet to be repaired by Niv Energy, the company responsible for maintenance.
Neighborhoods Left in Darkness and Safety Concerns Rise
According to local residents, the unlit streets have become gathering places for antisocial activities. SMC is aware of the complaints and has directed Niv Energy to repair all non-functional streetlights by the 11th. However, residents have reservations about safety issues, claiming that navigating dark streets at night has resulted in accidents and criminal activity.
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Background: Streetlight Installation and Negligence
The SMC manages over 32,000 streetlights. In 2017, the Odisha government contracted Niv Energy to handle streetlight installation and maintenance in the city. However, residents allege that the company has been negligent, failing to promptly address complaints. Although Niv Energy set up a grievance hotline, most calls go unanswered, and even when complaints are registered, they rarely see timely action. SMC is not even provided with updates on complaint resolutions, leaving residents frustrated and feeling unsafe.
SMC Sets Up New Grievance System
In response to mounting complaints, SMC has implemented an Integrated Grievance System. Residents experiencing issues with streetlights or other SMC services can now call the new hotline at 18003456791. SMC Commissioner has committed to overseeing complaints directly to ensure faster resolutions. Additionally, SMC has scheduled a review meeting with Niv Energy on the 11th to discuss the persistent issues with streetlight maintenance.
Daytime Streetlights Also Under Scrutiny
In contrast to the unlit areas at night, there are locations where streetlights remain on during the day, wasting resources. Residents have urged SMC and Niv Energy to address both issues as soon as possible.
