Not just once or twice, but on countless occasions, residents have complained to the authorities about the streetlights on Bengal Street (Ext. 3) burning 24-hours a day, but to no avail.
Speaking to the Laudium Sun, disgruntled Bengal Street resident, Sogie Naidoo (40) claimed that the issue of the streetlights not being switched off during the day has been on-going over the past three weeks or so.
"Recently, I was surprised to see that all the streetlights in our neighbourhood were constantly on during broad daylight. In the Summer months, daylight fades away much later in the evening and I think streetlights should also be switched on later in the evening to at least save electricity," Sogie said.
"Periodic checks are not happening. Energy consumption is already high because of the use of fans and air-conditioners to beat the Summer heat. It is the responsibility of the authorities to take steps to prevent the unnecessary wastage of energy," the concerned resident added.
Another disgruntled Ext. 3 resident, Derusha Naicker (24), said that it is a sheer waste of public money. She said that the council could install timers or photo-electric switches, which could save the wastage of scarce resources.
"This is highly irresponsible on the part of the authorities concerned. They preach to us to save electricity and are not bothered to implement it themselves. I have noticed the streetlights staying on during the day for the past few weeks and I have complained to the council on several occasions, but no action has been taken yet," she said irately.
Councillor Mahomed Essop told the Laudium Sun that he would look into the matter of the streetlights and report it to the relevant departments.
“It would help a great deal if residents could furnish me with reference numbers given at the time of lodging complaints. Remember to insist on receiving a reference number from the council official.”
Residents are irked over the fact that street lights remain switched on throughout the day and night on Bengal Street, Ext. 3.
Ext. 3 resident, Derusha Naicker says she has filed many complaints with the council but her complaints have fallen on deaf ears.
Irate resident, Sogie Naidoo says the council should be more responsible when it comes to the wastage of electricity.