‘Let there be light’ is a familiar line from the 'Book of Genesis' in the Bible. And, of course, light plays an important role in our lives.
On the subject of light, one of the perks of residing in Goa’s capital city of Panjim, or its suburbs, is that street lights are aplenty, which means you don’t have to worry about losing your way if you are travelling when night falls.
This extensive illumination allows residents and visitors to navigate their way comfortably well into the night, with the bright streets creating a welcoming atmosphere all around the city.
Some years ago, significant steps were taken to improve lighting across the State. Under the government’s UJALA scheme, the ordinary incandescent light bulbs prevailing at the time were replaced with energy-saving LED bulbs, which were distributed to the public free of cost in 2016.
Following this, in 2017, the Goa government went one step further, and took additional measures by upgrading conventional street lights to LED fixtures, replacing over 1 lakh street lights across the State, in the bargain.
Not only do these upgrades promote energy conservation, but more importantly, they enhance visibility, making the streets safer.
Under the government’s UJALA scheme, the ordinary incandescent light bulbs prevailing at the time were replaced with energy-saving LED bulbs, which were distributed to the public free of cost in 2016.
While these advancements are laudable, not everyone in Goa is fortunate enough to reap their benefits, and several parts of Goa are plunged into darkness as dusk turns into night.
Even places just a short 15-minute drive from Panjim, such as Salvador do Mundo, do not get to enjoy the brilliant street lights that the capital city is privileged to experience.
In places such as this village, and even farther away, the glow of street lights, which are few and far between, fails to brighten the night adequately, leaving many areas shrouded in pitch darkness.
This lack of illumination poses safety risks, particularly for those returning home after work.
In places such as this village, and even farther away, the glow of street lights, which are few and far between, fails to brighten the night adequately, leaving many areas shrouded in pitch darkness.
And, for those individuals, who depend on public transport, walking home in the dark can be a daunting experience.
The absence of reliable lighting raises concerns, particularly for women, whose safety is compromised in poorly-lit areas. Enhanced street lighting would significantly contribute to a sense of security.
As if that was not enough, big cats straying into villages lately, takes the situation to a different level. With these nocturnal wild animals being increasingly spotted in villages in the wee hours, the need for improved illumination becomes even more pressing.
Improved street lighting could not only deter wildlife from wandering into populated areas, but also provide a safer environment for residents and their domesticated animals.
Improved street lighting could not only deter wildlife from wandering into populated areas, but also provide a safer environment for residents and their domesticated animals.
The challenges of navigating through Goa at night are not limited to the local populace. In unfamiliar Goan territory, tourists travelling after dark often find themselves lost or disoriented, especially in the lush green villages that take on a mysterious and treacherous appearance when the sun sets.
A well-lit environment would enhance the overall experience for visitors, allowing them to appreciate Goa’s beauty without the fear of straying away from their planned routes, and even reducing the number of road accidents.
During events like the annual International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Panjim receives a stunning makeover, complete with all manner of decorative lighting.
While all this ample colourful lighting transforms and beautifies the city, leaving visitors awestruck, it also highlights a disparity in lighting infrastructure throughout the rest of the state – many areas remain dimly lit, reeling under the shadows of neglect.
The focus on aesthetics during IFFI raises a question: Why should the main roads and urban locations alone receive heaps of attention when the interior roads of the State require adequate basic lighting, too?
While Goa has made significant strides in improving street lighting, particularly in urban areas, much still remains to be done in non-urban locations.
Expanding the network of street lights to include interior roads will not only enhance safety for residents, but also improve the overall experience for tourists.
A well-lit Goa will allow its natural beauty to shine through, creating a welcoming environment for everyone. By investing in better street lighting, the government can help ensure that every corner of Goa is as bright and inviting as its vibrant culture.