Lighting crisis fuels rise in crime

The lack of adequate lighting has led to a rise in theft, robbery, and street crime.

RAWALPINDI:

The Municipal Corporation of Rawalpindi is struggling to address a growing public safety issue as severe financial constraints have hindered the installation of new street lights and the replacement of damaged bulbs throughout the city.

At present, over half of the solar-powered street lights are malfunctioning, leaving many areas in darkness after sunset.

This lack of adequate lighting has led to a rise in theft, robbery, and street crime, including purse and mobile phone snatchings. Additionally, the absence of street lights has reportedly facilitated the operations of drug and alcohol sellers in affected neighbourhoods.

As the new financial year commenced on July 1, 2024, the municipal corporation's funding issues have resulted in a 50% shortfall in the stock of street lights and bulbs needed for the city. Priority for replacements has been given to key political and administrative areas, while less prominent locations remain in darkness.

Affected neighbourhoods include Naya Mohalla, College Road, Mohanpura, Osmanpura, Sadiqabad, Dhoke Elahi Bakhsh, Dhoke Khaba, Dhoke Hassu, Fauji Colony, Millat Colony, Qasimabad, and Dhoke Ratta.

Raja Haneef Advocate, Provincial Parliamentary Secretary from Rawalpindi, assured residents that the street light issue will be resolved soon and that plans are in place to procure additional lights for future needs.