GVMC weighs contractor change over streetlight outages

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) is evaluating corrective measures, including a possible change of contractor, to address persistent streetlight failures across the city. The issue continues despite monthly maintenance spending exceeding ₹1 crore, prompting criticism from corporators and complaints from residents.

Officials said the city has about 1.18 lakh streetlights, most of them upgraded to LED fixtures to reduce energy use and costs. Maintenance was initially handled by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), which received Rs 18.5 crore annually over eight years. After EESL’s exit, a Hyderabad-based agency secured the contract, with GVMC now paying over Rs 1 crore per month.

Under contract terms, the agency must deploy teams in all 98 wards, each comprising a technician, a helper, and staff to identify non-functional lights. Faults are to be rectified within two days, failing which penalties may be imposed.

Corporators have alleged that lighting conditions have remained unsatisfactory for several years, citing inadequate staffing. The matter has been raised repeatedly in Standing Committee and Council meetings. Residents have also flagged poor illumination in several areas, particularly at night.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg said the civic body was working to resolve the issue. Options under consideration include terminating the current contractor before the tender period ends if performance does not improve. Another proposal involves reallocating some zones to a new agency.

Mr. Garg added that EESL has expressed renewed interest in undertaking maintenance. Discussions are also underway on replacing existing fixtures with higher-luminosity LED lights. A decision is expected soon, officials said.