Pune: PMC Installs 100 Street Lights in NIBM Annexe Following Citizen Complaints

Mohammadwadi, 26th April 2026: After nearly two years of sustained efforts by local residents, a long-standing issue of poor street lighting in NIBM Annexe, Mohammadwadi, has finally been addressed with the installation of around 100 new street light poles.

The fast-developing residential pocket had been grappling with inadequate illumination on internal roads and several dark stretches, particularly after sunset. Residents had repeatedly flagged safety concerns, noting that insufficient lighting made the area vulnerable, especially for women, children and senior citizens. Fear of theft and multiple close-call incidents had further heightened anxiety among locals.

Despite several complaints submitted to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the matter saw little progress for an extended period. The issue gained momentum only after consistent follow-ups, on-ground inspections and repeated escalation by social activist Jaymala Dhankikar and journalist Nadeem Inamdar.

Following these efforts, the civic body undertook a targeted drive to improve lighting infrastructure in the locality. The installation of street light poles across key internal roads and previously unlit patches has significantly improved visibility and accessibility in the area.

Dhankikar described the development as the outcome of persistent civic engagement. She said residents had been raising the issue for a long time, stressing that proper street lighting is a basic necessity. The recent work, she added, has brought much-needed relief to the community.

Inamdar emphasised that continuous follow-up played a crucial role in resolving the issue. He noted that infrastructure gaps in expanding urban areas often remain unaddressed unless consistently highlighted through citizen action and reporting.

Both Dhankikar and Inamdar acknowledged the role of PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram in expediting the work, stating that administrative intervention helped push the long-pending demand toward execution.

Residents have expressed satisfaction with the improvement, saying the difference is immediately noticeable. Many pointed out that areas which were earlier poorly lit are now safer and more comfortable to navigate even during late hours.

PMC officials said that strengthening basic infrastructure in rapidly growing suburbs remains a priority, adding that proposals for similar street lighting improvements in other parts of the city are being reviewed.

The development highlights how sustained public engagement, coupled with administrative responsiveness, can help resolve critical civic issues in urban neighbourhoods.