Solar street lights installed three years ago along a 2-kilometer stretch from Khenusa to the Tourist Cafeteria at Sangri Top are mostly dysfunctional, leaving commuters to navigate the risky, accident-prone road in darkness.
The lights were installed by the local administration in coordination with the Science and Technology Department to illuminate the wooded area and reduce risks from wild animal encounters—a constant fear in the region.
“Lakhs of rupees were spent on installing the lights for the ease of commuters,” said Sajad Ahmad, a local resident. “The road is risky and the area is pitch dark at night.”
Locals say around 30 lights were installed, but only a few remain functional. They have demanded immediate repairs to restore the lighting system.