High-beam LED lights raise road safety concerns in Visakhapatnam

The growing use of auxiliary high-intensity LED headlights on vehicles has emerged as a road safety concern in the city. Motorists complain that the excessive glare makes it difficult to see oncoming vehicles and the road ahead at night.

Cars, autos, two-wheelers and tourist buses are among the vehicles reportedly being fitted with additional high-beam LED lights. Unlike manufacturer-supplied headlights, these aftermarket lights can produce intense illumination that temporarily impairs the vision of oncoming drivers.

Vehicle headlights are designed to provide adequate visibility without causing discomfort or glare to other road users. Drivers are expected to switch from high beam to low beam when another vehicle approaches. However, many motorists either continue to use high beams in traffic or install additional lights for brighter illumination.

The problem is particularly noticeable on city roads after dark. Glare from a high-intensity light makes it difficult for an approaching driver to judge the road, vehicles and obstacles ahead, and any resulting loss of visibility increases the risk of accidents.

High beams have a legitimate purpose on roads with limited traffic, particularly in suburban areas, where they improve visibility over a longer distance. They should, however, be switched to low beam when approaching or following other vehicles.

Residents have questioned the effectiveness of enforcement by the police and the Transport Department. Although special drives are conducted occasionally and unauthorised lights are removed, motorists say such measures have not stopped the practice.

The Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) specify requirements for vehicle lighting, including specifications, intensity and positioning. Headlights are required to illuminate the road adequately without causing excessive glare to other road users.

Residents have urged the authorities to intensify inspections, act against vehicles fitted with unauthorised high-intensity lights and impose appropriate penalties on repeat offenders. They have also sought sustained awareness campaigns to educate motorists about the proper use of high and low beams.

With night-time traffic increasing in Visakhapatnam, motorists say effective enforcement and responsible use of headlights are essential to improving road safety.