Residents living along Vomo Street in Lautoka are expressing concerns for their safety due to non-functional street lights that have not been operational for several months. This issue is widespread, with many streets in Lautoka experiencing similar problems, leaving residents uncertain about whom to contact for repairs.
Peni Nabainivalu, a local resident, highlighted a lack of communication on how to report the issue. “The lights haven’t been working for almost one year now. It is a matter of safety for the people around here, especially the elderly,” Mr. Nabainivalu stated.
He noted that intoxicated individuals often gather under trees, contributing to a sense of insecurity among residents who do not know how to reach the appropriate authorities, such as the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), regarding the streetlight failures. He also mentioned incidents of harassment, with reports of young boys lurking in dark areas.
In one troubling incident, Mr. Nabainivalu’s brother-in-law discovered that his vehicle was vandalized, with the back window smashed while parked.
Another resident, Rajesh Lata, shared her frustrations after attempting to report the issue to the Lautoka City Council, which advised her to contact the FRA. “I contacted the Lautoka City Council and they told me that I should complain to FRA, but I don’t know how to. People gather under the trees across from my home during the night. I don’t understand why only part of the streetlights in front of my house is not working,” she said.
With the area being busy with constant movement, Ms. Lata expressed her fear of potential criminal activity taking advantage of the darkness.
The residents are calling for prompt attention to this crucial aspect of urban safety, hoping the streets can be restored to a secure environment. As of now, inquiries sent to the FRA regarding the matter remain unanswered.