Lights Out on CST Road: A Year in Darkness Risks Lives in Kalina

CST Road (Kurla-Santacruz Road), Kalina, Mumbai: For over a year, the bustling CST Road in Kalina has been left in complete darkness post-sunset due to the absence of streetlights between Kolivery Road junction and Bharat Ratna Ambedkar Chowk. The issue stems from the removal of divider-mounted streetlights during the construction of the Santacruz-Chembur Elevated Link Road (SCLR), leaving this nearly 1-km stretch unlit.

Adjacent Hans Bhugra Road fares slightly better, with functional lights on one lane, while the other remains dark.

“This road becomes pitch dark after 9 pm, making it unsafe, especially for pedestrians,” said Saddam Husain, a Kalina resident. Muhammad Sikandar echoed similar sentiments, calling it “risky to cross at night.”

Concerned citizen Priyanka Borpujari flagged the issue on social media, prompting a response from Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited. However, she found herself in the middle of a blame game between the BMC and Adani. According to Borpujari, “The BMC says it’s Adani’s job, while Adani insists the BMC must submit a proposal for new installations.”

The stretch, particularly near Mumbai University, is perilous due to speeding vehicles and blind curves. Mid-day’s visit confirmed the absence of lighting, creating significant safety risks for heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

The BMC claims it installed some lights from the Western Express Highway to Mumbai University but has promised to investigate the “remaining unlit stretches.” Meanwhile, Kalina residents continue to call for urgent action to restore safety to their roads.