Vinay Kumar
Pune: The Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has repaired around 200 dysfunctional streetlights following mounting complaints about dark stretches across the area. More than 500 damaged fittings remain unattended.An internal survey found that nearly 900 of the cantonment’s 5,000 streetlight fittings had become non-functional over the past two years, affecting key roads such as MG Road, East Street and the Solapur highway.The board, during its last meeting, sanctioned Rs 44 lakh for repairs and aims to complete the work before the monsoon. Residents and defence personnel have criticised the delay, citing safety risks, accidents, stray dog attacks and poor visibility on major roads during night-time.Major stretches affected include MG Road, East Street, Sachapir Street and the Solapur highway — roads that witness heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the day and late into the night.Board officials said repair work has already begun and is expected to take more than a month to complete.“The issue had reached a point where it could no longer be deferred. Safety concerns, especially for pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, were becoming serious,” a senior PCB official told TOI.“We have repaired streetlights in the core Camp area and in some pockets of Wanowrie. Completing the remaining work during the monsoon will be challenging because of on-ground issues,” the official added.Residents, however, questioned why the problem was allowed to persist for such a long period.“We have been complaining about dark stretches on important roads for nearly two years. The board acted only after the situation became unbearable. Public safety should never depend on public pressure,” said Murtaza Poonawala, a Camp-based civic activist.Many residents alleged that the absence of functioning streetlights had contributed to accidents, stray dog attacks and growing concerns over personal security.“My elderly parents avoid evening walks because several roads become pitch dark after sunset. We pay taxes and expect basic civic amenities. The board has been far too slow in responding,” said Camp resident Anita D’Souza.Military personnel stationed in the cantonment have also expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of public infrastructure.“A large number of soldiers and their families use these roads for walks, runs and routine movement. Poor visibility has increased the risk of accidents. This should have been addressed much earlier,” said a senior Army officer.Residents said the dark stretches have become particularly dangerous for women, senior citizens and two-wheeler riders.“Streetlights are not a luxury; they are a basic safety requirement. Every delay increases the risk of theft, harassment and accidents,” said local resident Asif Khan.Officials said the agency appointed for the project would repair and replace damaged fittings, besides inspecting wiring and electrical fixtures to prevent recurring faults. Priority would be given to heavily used roads before repairs are extended to other affected areas.“We have to lay cables on some streets, and the exercise is time-consuming. However, we now have a comprehensive plan to address the issue effectively across the cantonment limits,” a senior PCB official said.
