Residents of Vomo Street in Lautoka are voicing their concerns regarding safety issues caused by malfunctioning street lights that have been out of order for several months. This problem is not isolated to their street, as many areas in Lautoka are experiencing similar lighting failures. Locals are uncertain about whom to contact to rectify the situation.
Peni Nabainivalu, a resident, expressed his frustration, stating he did not know the appropriate channels to lodge a complaint. He mentioned that the lights have been non-functional for nearly a year and highlighted the safety risks this poses, particularly for elderly residents. Nabainivalu noted that intoxicated individuals frequently gather under the trees in the dark, exacerbating the issue.
The lack of lighting has reportedly led to incidents of harassment, with claims of young boys lurking in the shadows. In a recent troubling event, Nabainivalu’s brother-in-law had his parked vehicle vandalized, with its rear window smashed.
Another resident, Rajesh Lata, shared a similar experience. After contacting the Lautoka City Council for help, she was advised to reach out to the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), but expressed difficulty in knowing how to proceed. Lata mentioned that groups congregate under trees near her home at night, making her uneasy about potential break-ins.
The residents stress the importance of proper street lighting for urban safety and are hoping for prompt action to improve conditions in their community. Inquiries directed to the FRA regarding the ongoing lighting issues have yet to receive a response.