Hyderabad residents raise alarm over non-functioning streetlights on ORR

Hyderabad: Residents of Hyderabad have expressed serious concerns over non-functioning streetlights along significant stretches of the Outer Ring Road (ORR), especially near Rajendranagar and areas leading to the Hyderabad Airport. Commuters are reporting long dark stretches, posing safety risks and reduced visibility, particularly during heavy rains.

Sai Teja, a resident and social activist, shared his experience with Hyderabad Mail, highlighting the lack of illumination across several kilometers of the ORR. “There are many places on the ORR stretch where there is absolutely no lighting. The total length of the ORR is about 160 kilometers, and nearly 100 kilometers of it remain in darkness,” he said.

Detailing a recent journey, he added, “I traveled from Peddamberpet to the airport and found no lighting throughout. On my return trip and further at Exit 5 toward Medak, which is around 58 kilometers, at least 32 kilometers had no functional lights.”

Sai Teja also pointed out the difficulties in reaching emergency services. “I tried calling 14447 from two different numbers, but it said the number was unavailable. In the heavy rain, I had to get out of the car and walk to an SOS booth. Even that wasn’t easily accessible. I injured my leg while trying to cross a barrier to reach it,” he said.

He stressed the importance of functional streetlights, not only for road safety but also as a preventive measure against crime. “Dark spots make it easier for crimes to occur. Criminals act where they feel unseen. This issue was identified back in 2020 and 2021, but many of those spots remain unfixed.”

Sai Teja urged the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) department and the Chief Minister, who also oversees the department, to take immediate action. “Illumination is critical. The authorities must address this issue without delay.”

Another commuter, Ashwini, echoed similar concerns. “There are no lights on a 3-kilometer stretch of the ORR. It’s especially dark near Rajendranagar and the airport junction. The concerned department needs to act.” Residents are calling on authorities to restore lighting infrastructure promptly to ensure safety and prevent potential accidents or crimes.