Dinwiddie residents frustrated by non-working streetlights
It is almost a year now, and the streetlights in these streets have been out of order, leaving the community in darkness as night falls.
Dinwiddie residents in Woodkirk, Camberley, Esher, and Ambleside roads are tired of reporting streetlights that are not working.
It is almost a year now, and the streetlights in these streets have been out of order, leaving the community in darkness as night falls.
“We are frustrated and concerned about the lack of action to resolve the issue. The non-working street lights have raised alarm bells about safety and the potential dangers of living in an unlit environment,” said resident William Pretorius.
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He said, as residents, they are concerned about the heightened risk of crime.
“The absence of proper lighting creates opportunities for criminal activities such as theft, vandalism, and more serious offences. Walking home in the dark feels unsafe,” said Pretorius.
He said residents are uncomfortable walking in the evenings, especially when returning from work.
“It is not just about convenience; it is about safety. We need the street lights to be fixed immediately.
In addition to concerns about crime, the lack of street lights poses a hazard to pedestrians and drivers.
Not having working streetlights has ripple effects. Because it is dark, people are not comfortable going outside when they hear concerning screams or sounds.
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“Because you cannot see, if someone gets robbed, you would not be able to identify the thief,” said Precious.
He said they have reported several complaints to the municipal office, but the streetlights remain non-functional.
“The only thing we get is a reference number. The city has yet to provide an explanation for the delay or an estimated time for the lights to be repaired.
“Some residents have raised the question of whether the issue is being neglected because of the area’s location or economic status,” said Pretorius.
He said it is concerning and disappointing that residents have to beg for services.
“We pay our taxes. One would expect such an issue to be resolved quickly, but it’s been nearly a year, and we are still waiting.
“It is our right to live in a safe environment. We deserve answers and immediate action,” said Pretorius.
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Ward 39 Clr Jean Ingram said the entire Germiston has hundreds of streetlights that are not working.
“The city has a single team in Germiston trying to fix the issue. Unfortunately, it has been indicated that if any parts or equipment are needed, the team cannot help, because they do only basic work on streetlights,” explained Ingram.
She said in her ward they have started fixing some streetlights.
“They have started in Lower Dinwiddie and are now busy in Hazelpark, Hazeldene, and some parts of Mimosa. The process is moving slowly and we will have to see how far the team goes,” said Ingram.
She said as councillors, they will continue to escalate and plead with the MMC and relevant departments to ensure an adequate budget and enough personnel to work on this problem.
“The prolonged absence of street lighting is more than an inconvenience; it is a serious safety issue that demands attention.
As councillors, we are calling for swift action from the city to restore lighting and ensure the community can feel secure in their neighbourhood once again,” said Ingram.
