Residents living in Mount Pleasant, particularly in the Arundel area, have complained of poor lighting in the area, saying most streets do not have street lights.

While most of the street lights in the area are dysfunctional, there are a number of streets that do not even have poles erected. Residents who use public transport after hours are particularly vulnerable to darkness, as lighting is limited to main roads.

Motorists have also complained of poor lighting in the suburb, which, coupled with the wet weather, has resulted in numerous car skids after drivers fail to slow down going into unseen corners.

“The district council needs to do something to improve street lighting in the area, as this is affecting both motorists and pedestrians when travelling during the night,” said Mark Theist, a resident of the area.

Many residents in the area are keen joggers, but most joggers have resorted to changing their exercise timetables.

“Running at five in the morning comes with the risk of spraining your ankle after landing in a pothole full of water.

“Although there are neighbourhood watch patrols in the area, one still isn’t comfortable taking their run in a dim street,” says Anisa Chima, who also resides in the area.

Mount Pleasant District officer, Mr Gift Jumburu, however says in cases where residents do not report dysfunctional lighting, council might not be aware of such challenges.

“We are aware that there maybe some roads without street lights at all, but in such cases it is because at the time when those houses were built, residents had not considered street lighting as a priority.

“We have an effective feedback system with our residents, where they can walk in and report faults, which are immediately attended to. Those complaining without notifying us cannot be helped.

“Every second Wednesday of the month, we hold community meetings here at the district council. Those who attend are well-informed and keep us updated. Now that a report has been made, we will rectify the issue,” he said.

Council has erected solar lights in the CBD — a move that has curbed electricity costs and also benefited local communities.