Lucknow Plunged into Darkness: Civic Negligence Casts a Shadow Over Diwali Celebrations

As the 'Festival of Lights,' Diwali, draws near, Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, finds itself ironically cloaked in an unsettling darkness. A staggering 40,000 out of the city's 1.7 lakh streetlights lie non-functional, transforming bustling streets into perilous stretches and dimming the festive spirit for thousands of residents.

This widespread civic negligence by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has sparked a wave of anger and frustration across various localities.

Residents from prominent areas such as Gomti Nagar, Alambagh, Faizabad Road, Indiranagar, Vikas Nagar, and Daliganj are grappling with the harsh realities of unlit roads.

The absence of proper illumination has turned daily commutes into a risky affair, significantly increasing the fear of theft, chain-snatching incidents, and road accidents. For women and the elderly, venturing out after dusk has become a source of profound anxiety.

"It's a bizarre situation," laments Priya Singh, a resident of Indiranagar.

"How can a city prepare for Diwali when its own streets are so dark? We've complained countless times, but nothing changes. It feels like we're being deliberately ignored." Her sentiments echo the widespread disillusionment felt by many, who view the LMC's inaction as a blatant disregard for public safety and convenience, especially during such a significant cultural event.

The root of the problem, according to LMC officials, ranges from 'technical glitches' and 'ongoing repair work' to the frequent 'theft of underground cables.' While officials acknowledge the magnitude of the issue, their promises of swift resolution often fall flat, leaving residents in perpetual twilight.

Reports indicate that approximately 4,000 complaints related to non-functional streetlights are lodged every month, highlighting the chronic nature of this urban blight.

Even areas critical for public movement, such as the railway bridge near Daliganj, the road leading to Lucknow University's gate, and the busy stretch from IT College to Engineering College, remain shrouded in darkness.

The problem isn't confined to main thoroughfares; internal lanes and residential colonies are also severely affected, turning once-safe neighborhoods into daunting spaces after sunset.

The irony is stark: a city famed for its 'tehzeeb' (etiquette) and vibrant cultural life is failing to provide basic infrastructure for its citizens to celebrate their most cherished festival.

This recurring issue of non-functional streetlights isn't new; it has plagued Lucknow for years, surfacing with renewed intensity each festive season. The collective plea from Lucknow's citizens is clear: concrete action must replace empty promises. The glow of Diwali should not be overshadowed by the gloom of civic apathy.