Well-lit streets is not an impossible expectation!

Representation pic

One of the aspects Mumbai always prided itself on, was well-lit streets. Mumbai seemed to shine brighter when compared to many other cities in India. Now that reputation seems to be under some threat considering the times we have reported public spaces, like skywalks especially, plunged into darkness post sunset, with none to very poor lighting. Most citizens, quite rightly, seemed to steer clear of these spaces.

Now, though action may be taken after this paper flagged Lokhandwala Complex Andheri West residents, especially women, are finding it increasingly difficult to walk along the stretch beneath the under-construction Metro Line 6 after sunset due to missing street lights, the point is that this should not have happened at all.

Our report said that locals have complained about the same to the MMRDA, demanding that the issue be resolved at the earliest. Resident association representatives did say they have highlighted this with different agencies.

An official said that all efforts are being made to install temporary lighting until street light poles are restored. Temporary lighting should have been in place the day the work started. It is unacceptable that one half of your population is denied access to spaces like roads, because of very legitimate safety worries.

Besides the prospect of crime, dark stretches can also lead to serious falls, tripping on the road, walking into sleeping dogs or tripping over them, leading to bites and even fractures, or vehicles crashing into you. Light is a lifesaver, let us put it straight. It is also an essential, a citizen's right. Make all public spaces visible now.