Residents along Vomo Street in Lautoka are expressing concerns for their safety due to several non-functional street lights that have been out for months. Numerous streets in Lautoka face similar lighting issues, leaving residents uncertain about whom to contact for assistance.
One resident, Peni Nabainivalu, stated that he has been unsure about where to raise the issue. He noted, “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.” Nabainivalu pointed out that intoxicated individuals often congregate under trees in the area, creating further worries among local residents regarding how to reach the appropriate authorities, such as the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), to address the streetlight problems.
The lack of adequate lighting has also led to reports of harassment, with claims of young boys hiding in the shadows of darkened streets. In one troubling occurrence, Nabainivalu’s brother-in-law had his parked vehicle vandalized, with its back window shattered.
Another resident, Rajesh Lata, shared her frustrations after contacting the Lautoka City Council, only to be told to reach out to the FRA. “I don’t know how to file a complaint with FRA,” she said. “People come and sit under the trees across from my home during the night. I don’t understand why only a section of the streetlights in front of my house isn’t working.” Lata expressed her fear that the busy road’s lack of lighting could lead to criminal activities, stating, “I’m scared that someone can take advantage of the darkness and try breaking into my home.”
As street lighting is a crucial element of urban safety, residents are hoping for prompt action to ensure their streets are adequately illuminated and secure. Inquiries made to the FRA regarding this issue have not received a response.