Streetlights are welcomed as one of the many public safety strategies in cities and communities alike. They provide lighting to increase visibility, promote road safety for drivers and pedestrians and discourage theft or violence. Likewise, the installation of new LED streetlights has brightened the lives of people in Zhemgang town.
Without proper streetlights, people hardly walked for the fear of being attacked. But with streetlights every few metres away, people are out enjoying their walk on the street.
“In the past, there were no proper streetlights here and it used to be dark. But with the installation of new LED lights around, it’s as clear as the day and the town looks good. Moreover, the widened road has eased everything here,” said Dorji Wangchuk, a resident.
“Before the installation of streetlights along this area, it was quite risky. The area is now safer as we can walk freely at night without fear of being attacked by stray dogs,” added Sonam Pema Rinchen, another resident.
The Zhemgang municipal office spent about Nu 2.5 M for the installation and replacement of 60 LED streetlights. Apart from its long lifespan, the LED lighting system consumes less energy.
The Municipal office plans to replace all the existing streetlights with LED bulbs in the outskirts of the main town in the next financial year.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sonam Pem