Letter of the Day | Find urgent solution to fix badly lit roads
Published:Tuesday | July 11, 2023 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I write to express deep concern regarding the prevailing issue of insufficient road lighting in certain areas of Jamaica. While the installation of energy-efficient LED streetlights by the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) was hailed as a positive step forward, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Urgent action is needed to address this critical problem, as it poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of both motorists and pedestrians.
In an article published on June 16, 2022, titled ‘JPS hits 105,000-mark in LED streetlights’, the JPS proudly boasted about the cost savings achieved through the project. Undoubtedly, these energy-efficient lights hold great potential when they are functional and sufficiently distributed. However, there exists a stark contrast between certain areas, such as parts of Hagley Park Road in St Andrew, where most of the lights are operational, and locations like Mandela Highway, where there are no working lights between the Portmore stop light and Central Village in Spanish Town. The situation is the same for the stretch between the Jamaica Police Academy and Greendale in Spanish Town. In these poorly illuminated areas, pedestrians appear as mere shadows, irrespective of their attire. Coupled with the prevalent issue of potholes, which warrants its own dedicated newspaper section, driving at night becomes an unnerving obstacle course where caution alone is not enough.
The lack of adequate lighting is not limited to areas outside of Kingston and St Andrew; it permeates even within the capital. As one approaches Dunrobin Avenue on Washington Boulevard, the lack of lighting becomes alarmingly apparent. One cannot help but question whether those responsible for managing these matters are traversing the same roads as the rest of us. If they are, why are they not recognising this dire situation as a major issue in urgent need of resolution?
As a result, drivers have resorted to using high-beam lights as a makeshift solution. This only exacerbates the problem, as the blinding glare impairs visibility for those on the other side. Consequently, driving becomes even more perilous. It is crucial that the stakeholders address this matter urgently.
The responsible authorities need to allocate the necessary resources and implement effective measures to rectify this pressing concern. Adequate road lighting is not a luxury, but a fundamental necessity for public safety. The safety of all citizens should be paramount, and we cannot afford to overlook or delay in addressing this issue.
Citizens should come together in raising awareness about this pressing matter and demanding immediate action. Let us unite our voices to ensure well-lit roads that ensure the safety and security of all road users.
COAINE RICHARDS
Spanish Town, St Catherine