AMC Receives Nearly 4.98 Lakh Complaints Of Non-Functional Streetlights Over 5 Years, Yet No Major Action Taken

Ahmedabad: Despite large-scale investments and the installation of thousands of new streetlight poles, many neighborhoods in Ahmedabad continue to struggle with dark streets and unresolved maintenance issues. According to official figures, the municipal corporation has received nearly 4.98 lakh complaints over the past four years regarding non-functional streetlights, an average of over 250 complaints per day. Despite this steady feedback, the lighting department appears to be falling short in delivering timely repairs.

Over the past five years, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) spent approximately Rs 119 crore to install nearly 35,192 new streetlight poles in a bid to strengthen public lighting infrastructure, as per the reports. However, many residential and commercial areas remain poorly lit, raising concerns about public safety and administrative inefficiency.

Municipal Opposition Leader Shehzad Khan Pathan criticized the department, calling it a serious failure of basic civic services that directly affect residents. He highlighted irregularities in streetlight maintenance and questioned the effectiveness of such a massive investment when many streets are still engulfed in darkness.

The South Zone has emerged as the most affected area, with over one lakh complaints filed regarding non-functional lights. This, despite the city having a total of around 2.13 lakh streetlight poles, including 2.07 lakh standard poles, 245 high smart-light poles, and 6,000 LED fixtures along the BRTS corridor. The East Zone saw the highest financial outlay, with Rs 31 crore spent, but similar issues persist.

Further compounding the problem, the previous maintenance contract with service provider Citelum India expired three months ago. Since then, the AMC has not issued a new tender, leaving maintenance work at a standstill.

Local leaders and residents alike have expressed frustration over the lack of urgency from the authorities. Non-functional streetlights not only create inconvenience but also pose serious safety hazards. Reports of road accidents and fear of crime have increased in darkened areas. Citizens are now demanding immediate action to restore proper lighting and ensure public spaces are safe after dark.