Varanasi: In a move to modernize urban infrastructure and improve civic services, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation is set to introduce a high-tech system for managing street lighting across the city. A QR code-based complaint mechanism will soon be implemented, enabling residents to easily report faulty street lights, with authorities committing to resolve issues within 48 hours.
The decision was taken during a review meeting of the lighting and transport departments held at the Smart City auditorium in Sigra. Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari directed officials to install QR code-enabled GI boards on street poles. These boards will include details such as assembly constituency, ward, locality code, and a unique street light identification number, ensuring seamless complaint registration and faster response.
Currently, most street lights in the city were maintained by Energy Efficiency Services Limited, whose maintenance contract expired in December. With the corporation temporarily handling operations, the mayor has instructed officials to initiate a tender process for selecting a new agency. Additionally, a stock of 2,000 lights will be maintained to ensure immediate replacement of faulty units.
The civic body is also expediting plans to install 999 solar lights and 130 high-mast lights across 18 identified wards. Councillor-recommended lighting installations are expected to be completed within a week.
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal emphasized the need for innovation to boost revenue and curb unnecessary expenditure. As part of this approach, the corporation plans to use its own decorative lighting during the Dev Deepawali celebrations instead of renting, aiming for long-term cost savings.
In a separate review of the transport department, the mayor issued strict directives that all municipal vehicles must now be serviced only at authorized service centers, discontinuing repairs at the निगम workshop. Zonal sanitation officers have also been instructed to remain vigilant in the field and ensure immediate garbage clearance wherever required.
Senior officials, including Additional Municipal Commissioner Alok, Transport In-charge Vinod Gupta, Assistant Engineer Piyush Mehra, and others, were present during the meeting.
