The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is moving forward with plans to install 75,000 LED streetlights across the twin cities, a project that promises to significantly improve civic infrastructure and reduce energy costs. With an estimated investment of Rs 94 crore, the project will be executed through a public-private partnership model.
This initiative, which had been delayed since 2018 due to technical complications, has now gained momentum. HDMC officials have successfully addressed the challenges that had previously stalled the project. After clearing these obstacles, the corporation issued tenders for the selection of a concessionaire who will be responsible for implementing and maintaining the LED streetlight system. The project also includes the establishment of a centralized control and monitoring mechanism. Prior to this, Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City Limited (HDSCL) had attempted to implement a similar Smart City project, which involved the installation of 58,000 LED streetlights. However, despite multiple attempts to float tenders between 2018 and 2022, no agencies expressed interest in taking up the project, forcing the HDSCL to transfer it to the HDMC.
Following a fresh survey, HDMC revised its plans and increased the number of LED streetlights to 75,000. Due to the total project cost exceeding Rs 50 crore, approval was sought from the pre-tender scrutiny committee. After addressing the committee’s concerns, HDMC received the green light to proceed with the tendering process. The technical proposal will be reviewed on January 8, and a pre-bid meeting is scheduled for December 11. Vijay Kumar, the superintending engineer overseeing the project, expressed optimism about the timely implementation of the project, anticipating it will be completed within the next two months. The concessionaire selected will be responsible for maintaining the streetlights for a period of seven years.
SM Ganachari, the head of the electrical section, highlighted the financial benefits of the LED installation. The civic body currently spends up to Rs 2 crore on electricity bills for street lighting. With the installation of LED streetlights, HDMC expects to reduce electricity costs by up to 47%, with the savings being redirected towards paying off the EMIs for the agency responsible for the project. However, not all residents are pleased with the delays. Shyamsundar, a resident of Sulla Road in Keshwapur, expressed frustration over the prolonged wait for improved street lighting. Despite repeated complaints to the authorities, the community has only received promises about the upcoming installation of LED streetlights. This initiative reflects the growing focus on upgrading the urban infrastructure in Hubballi-Dharwad, while also promoting energy efficiency and cost savings. The installation of LED streetlights is expected to enhance public safety, reduce operational costs, and improve the overall quality of life in the region.
