ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Wednesday claimed to have restored 74pc lights on roads, parks, and commercial centers.

“The civic agency has restored almost 80pc signals, and fixed lights in 60pc parks of the sectors of I, G, and F series, besides installing colorful lights in underpasses and bridges,” a press release issued by CDA said. It said the administration is committed to beautification of the capital.

“In this regard, streetlights have been restored at Expressway, Srinagar Highway, Jinnah Avenue, Margalla Road, 7th Avenue, 9th Avenue, F-6, F-7, F-10, G-10, other commercial areas and roads,” it said.

The press release said that old conventional lights have been replaced by latest LED lights. The CDA said that colorful lights are also being installed side by side LED lights at underpasses and bridges to enhance their beauty.

“Work on repairing old lights and installing the new lights at parks has been completed. Patrolling team of CDA is also restoring the street lights at various places. More than 10 vehicles and staff have been given the task to address the complaints of people,” it said.

The CDA has over 40,000 streetlights and every month it pays millions of rupees against the estimated bills without any metering system. Recently, the CDA made an effort to streamline its system to check its electricity consumption. An official of CDA said that last month a meeting between the civic agency and National Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority was held to explore energy efficient solutions for streetlights and for water supply. The official said that work is in progress to make another 26pc lights functional.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2021