Residents brighten up as metro fixes streetlights

Community members in the north of Pretoria are glowing with positivity after the Tshwane metro made substantial progress in addressing the long-standing issue of inadequate public lighting in Soshanguve and Mabopane.

According to Deputy Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, metro teams have been working diligently to rectify the critical lighting backlog across more than 13 wards since mid-July this year, bringing a new sense of security and vibrancy to these areas.

Moya said the initiative has seen extensive repairs and upgrades to street lighting, encompassing a variety of critical tasks.

“Technicians have been busy fixing globes, replacing luminaires, repairing wiring, and mending fittings on street poles.

Notably, several high-mast lights, including one that was a safety hazard at Soshangaan Primary School, have been repaired.

These efforts are aimed at not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the streets but also ensuring the safety of residents,” said Moya.

She said recent installations of LED lights on major arterial roads such as Matlala Road in Soshanguve and Ruth First Road, R80 Commissioner Road, Buitekant, M44, Mokhetlhe Road, and Molefe Makinta Highway in Soutpan are part of the broader strategy to modernise and improve street lighting across the region.

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

Residents have expressed their gratitude and relief as the improvements have had a noticeable impact on their daily lives.

Kgomotso Manabile, a resident of Soshanguve AA, shared her enthusiasm.

“It’s a huge relief to see the streetlights working properly again.

For a long time, our streets were dark and felt unsafe. Now, we feel more secure walking around at night and the neighbourhood feels brighter and more welcoming,” said Manabile.

Naledi Nkosi, who lives in Mabopane U, echoed these sentiments.

“The new LED lights are fantastic. They not only light up the streets better but also make our community look modern and vibrant.

The recent repairs have made a difference, especially for the children and elderly who were afraid to go out after dark.”

Sikhumbuzo Mashaba, a community patroller in Soshanguve AA expressed relief about the repaired high-mast light.

“We were worried about the safety of our children due to the faulty light near schools.

Now that it’s fixed, we feel more comfortable knowing that the area around the school is safer,” said Mashaba.

Soshanguve Public Relations Officer Rhulani Ngobeni said the enhanced lighting will help reduce crime in the area.

“It’s difficult for us to patrol at night because it’s dark but these improved streetlights will help create more visibility.”

Ngobeni said the lighting will also improve local businesses.

“It’s difficult for businesses to operate because of no lighting but the streetlights will bring more foot traffic to local shops.

“Customers will feel safer coming out in the evening, which is great for business.”

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