Date: June 15, 2023
The Delhi government has announced plans to install more than 90,000 smart street lights in an important step towards improving women’s security and eliminating dark spots. This initiative, which has the approval of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in principle, will cover all roads maintained by the Public Works Department (PWD).
The implementation of smart street lights is set to transform the city’s lighting infrastructure, addressing a number of long-standing issues. The most important of these is the requirement for a strong central monitoring system to ensure continuous operation. According to the chief minister’s office, if any faults or failures occur, a control room will be immediately notified, triggering immediate replacement measures.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal emphasised the critical role that smart street lights will play in eliminating dark spots and instilling a sense of safety among citizens, particularly women, when speaking about the government’s commitment to strengthening women’s security.
PWD Minister Atishi presented the proposal to install 90,953 smart street lights at a high-level meeting at the Delhi secretariat. PWD officials emphasised the difficulties posed by the outdated technology used in existing street lights, such as the difficulty in obtaining spare parts and the excessive energy consumption. Due to the lack of real-time monitoring, these issues have resulted in skyrocketing electricity bills and hampered prompt complaint resolution.
This comprehensive initiative aims to eliminate dark spots in the city and reduce crime against women in low-light areas. Chief Minister Kejriwal expressed concern about the rising number of such crimes and emphasised that his government is taking all necessary preventative measures within its jurisdiction. Smart street lighting scheme implementation
The government has adopted the Energy Service Company (ESCO) model for the policy to centralise control and ensure efficient management of smart lights. This model enables the control room to quickly detect and repair any faulty lights. Furthermore, it aims to address the issue of lights remaining on during the day, resulting in unnecessary electricity waste.
The PWD’s electricity bill is expected to be reduced by approximately 50% under the ESCO model. The concessionaire will share the savings from lower electricity bills and maintenance costs.
59,572 traditional lights will be replaced with smart LED lights as part of the installation process, while 31,381 existing LED lights will be converted into smart street lights. The city will be illuminated by a total of 90,953 smart street lights as a result of this comprehensive transformation.
The ESCO agency will bear the maintenance costs for the next seven years, easing the government’s burden even further.
The installation of these intelligent street lights represents an important turning point in Delhi’s progress towards improved safety and security. The government’s dedication to fostering a safer environment for all citizens is demonstrated by the initiative’s primary focus on eradicating dark spots and enhancing women’s security. Delhi makes a big step towards becoming a smart and secure city with the implementation of this innovative plan.