Action Ordered After 140 Streetlights Found Defunct in Bengaluru Stretches

Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has directed the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to take action over maintenance lapses after a recent inspection revealed that 140 out of 222 streetlights were non-functional across stretches between Halasuru Gate Police Station Circle, SBI Circle, and Chalukya Circle.

During the inspection, 107 of the 155 lights between SBI Circle and Chalukya Circle were found non-functional. Along the stretch between Halasuru Gate Police Station Circle and SBI Circle, 33 of the 67 lights were either missing or not working. Gowda stated that the issue stemmed from a lack of accountability and instructed the GBA to hold responsible contractors and monitoring officials liable through penalties, payment deductions, contractual action, and departmental proceedings.

Gowda noted that having 140 out of 222 streetlights non-functional demonstrates that the city's streetlight maintenance system has been neglected despite the expenditure of public funds. He stated that the GBA electrical department must carry out regular inspections of major roads and junctions.

The findings come amid growing concerns from residents across Bengaluru over dark roads and unaddressed civic complaints. In RHCS Layout, resident Manjula reported that defunct streetlights have made the neighbourhood unsafe, with repeated complaints to civic authorities yielding no response.

In Ganigarapalya, residents including hospitality students and working professionals stated that poorly lit stretches have created blind spots where people face harassment and safety hazards, especially after 9 pm. Residents also reported that unlit roads filled with garbage, potholes, and stray animals have led to falls and accidents, particularly during rains when high-beam vehicle lights impair visibility.

Mukesh, a working professional, noted that non-functional and poorly maintained streetlights remain widespread on the city's outskirts and less visible roads, with reported issues frequently closed without resolution.

Urban strategist Vinod Jacob highlighted that public investment in LED streetlights is being underutilised due to poor maintenance and the absence of basic automated switching systems. Jacob stated that the GBA must take immediate responsibility for monitoring and maintenance, suggesting that the management of the system should be returned to BESCOM if the authority cannot handle it effectively.