Automotive Square streetlights get functional as NMC springs into action

Nagpur: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) electrical division sprang into action on Wednesday to repair over 20 non-functional streetlights near Automotive Chowk, bringing relief to commuters who had been facing major inconvenience due to poor lighting in the area. The repair work came swiftly after TOI reported the issue on Tuesday.
The repair drive was carried out under the supervision of executive engineer Rajendra Rathod, who dispatched a team of officials and the designated contractor to restore proper illumination in the affected areas. The non-functional streetlights had left the junction shrouded in darkness, leading to traffic congestion and increased risk of accidents. The busy junction is a crucial point connecting multiple routes, making proper street lighting essential for smooth vehicular movement and pedestrian safety.
Speaking to TOI, local resident Shanawaz Sheikh said that the streetlights from the Metro station to the Automotive Square have been restored. However, he pointed out that the streetlights towards Kamptee Road remain non-functional, continuing to pose a hazard to commuters and residents.
The responsibility for maintaining these remaining dysfunctional streetlights, however, does not lie with the NMC. According to officials, the streetlights along Kamptee Road fall under the jurisdiction of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The NMC has already sent a formal letter to the NHAI, urging them to undertake the necessary repairs at the earliest.
In the letter, the NMC warned that if any accidents occur due to poor visibility caused by inadequate lighting, the NHAI would be held accountable. "These streetlights were installed by the NHAI, and it is their duty to ensure their proper maintenance," Rathod told TOI.
Local residents and daily commuters have urged the authorities to expedite the repair work. "While we appreciate the efforts of the NMC in restoring some of the streetlights, the issue remains unresolved on the Kamptee Road section," said Mohd Irfan, a commuter.