Ranchi Street Lights Out: Safety Concerns Rise in Doranda, Dhurwa, Kokar, Bariatu

Ranchi: Residents of several localities in the state capital have expressed their concern over security after sunset due to poorly lit streets. Streetlights in Doranda, Dhurwa, Kokar, Bariatu and Peace Road have been dysfunctional for a while now, forcing pedestrians and commuters to negotiate potholes and traffic in the dark.Despite infrastructure, several street lights along the Doranda Main Road remain non-functional during evening hours. Similar complaints have emerged from Dhurwa, Kokar, Bariatu and Hatia, Peace Road, where large patches of roads remain in darkness, affecting daily movement and public safety. Poorly lit streets up the risk of road accidents, crime and harrassment against women, children and the elderly, locals said.“Street lights are either not working or switch off frequently. After 7 pm, Doranda Main Road becomes unsafe, especially for two-wheelers and pedestrians. The road is illuminated by the lights from shops which are lined up on both sides,” said Rakesh Kumar, a commuter.A resident from Bariatu, Sunita Devi, said, “We have poles and lights, but they don’t function. Children returning from coaching classes and people coming back from work feel insecure every evening.” Commuters also highlighted the poor visibility at crossings and curves. “In Hatia and Dhurwa, entire stretches remain dark, making it difficult to spot potholes and traffic,” said Vikram Singh, a city resident.Residents have urged the Ranchi Municipal Corporation to conduct urgent repairs and ensure routine maintenance of street lights across the city. With traffic volume increasing and urban expansion continuing, locals say functional public lighting is not a luxury but a basic civic necessity to ensure safety, mobility and a sense of security after dark.RMC officials acknowledged that ageing infrastructure, cable theft and lack of regular maintenance have contributed to the persistent problem of non-functional street lights. Municipal commissioner, Sushant Gaurav said, "Regular upkeep of street lights is being carried out both on the basis of public complaints and through cognisance taken during routine inspections. Repair and installation of remaining poles will be taken up in a phased manner as and when funds are available, with priority areas being identified accordingly."