Residents of Annandale North on the East Coast Demerara are set to see their community fully illuminated within the next two weeks. This development is part of the government’s ambitious plan to rollout 100,000 street lights across the country, aimed at enhancing community safety and security.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, made the announcement during an on-site inspection of the ongoing installations. His visit emphasized the government’s commitment to improving public safety through better street lighting, particularly in areas identified as high-risk.
During his address, Minister Edghill detailed the process of installation, highlighting that certified electricians and licensed contractors are guiding the work. Assessments are being conducted, including night audits to identify dark spots and security vulnerabilities within the community. “The engineers and technicians need to come to the communities at night to see where there are dark spots and security risks, and then come back with a plan,” he explained.
In addition to Annandale North, installation efforts are already underway in neighboring areas such as Sections ‘C’ and ‘D’ of Non-Pariel, where multiple contractors are actively working. The minister underscored that this initiative is being executed nationwide, with dozens of contractors engaged to expedite the process.
Community feedback is being encouraged to ensure the success of the initiative. “This is about community security and citizen security… we need feedback to know if the lights are working and if there is adequate coverage,” Edghill stated.
He also cautioned against improper practices, such as removing functioning lights or attempting to influence their placement. The street lighting initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing residents’ well-being by creating a greater sense of security and encouraging outdoor activities after dark.
“We are not just installing lights; we are ensuring people can come home safely, go to church, go to work, and return safely,” Minister Edghill concluded.
