Kochi street lights remain dysfunctional despite LED installation plans

Many street lights in Kochi are not working properly, despite a project to install LED lights. The city aimed to replace over 40,000 street lights, but problems persist, especially at places like Vyttila junction. The Public Works Department built flyovers but did not install lights under them, making it difficult for drivers and pedestrians. Uma Thomas, a local MLA, has complained to the District Collector about the lack of working lights on the Palarivattom-Edappally highway. She said that several street lights have been out for months and that nothing has been done despite raising the issue with local authorities. The dark conditions are a safety risk for everyone using the roads. Additionally, bright advertisement boards have been installed near the metro pillars, which block visibility for drivers. Thomas pointed out that this goes against local advertising policies and only adds to the dangers on the road. She threatened to take further action if the lights are not repaired soon. Local NGOs, such as the Vyttila Vikasana Samithi, have also raised concerns about the dangerous conditions at Vyttila Junction. They noted that many street lights and high mast lights are not functioning, particularly on major bypass roads. In response to these issues, Mayor M. Anilkumar promised that all street lights within Kochi would be fixed within a month. He stated that Cochin Smart Mission Limited is working on upgrading the street lighting system.