Noida: In the absence of streetlights on the way to and at the cremation ground, a 90-year-old woman in Junpat village, near Depot Metro Station in Greater Noida, was cremated using mobile flashlights on Monday night.The residents claim that the situation has persisted for four to five decades.“At night, performing the last rites becomes an overwhelming challenge for grieving families,” said Mohit Bhati, a resident of Junpat village. Apart from the lack of lighting, the cremation ground also faces severe deficiencies, including a lack of a proper access road, basic seating and drinking water facilities. Only recently, a retired armed forces personnel of the village installed a water tap at the cremation ground from his pension money.Furthermore, due to a lack of an overnight body preservation facility, families are forced to rush through last rites in the fading light, often leading to challenging and unsafe situations.“Lights at a cremation ground are not a luxury, but a necessity. We have waited for this basic amenity for over 50 years, and it’s time for change,” he urged.The absence of lights is also reported in Central Park and the surrounding roads of Sector 105, while streetlights are reported on only one side of the road in Sector 119 and its vicinity. The absence of adequate lighting has raised safety concerns, particularly for women and the elderly.
No streetlights in Sector 105 leaves Central Park and surrounding roads in the dark
Deepak Sharma, president of the Sector 105 Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA), issued a strong appeal to the Noida Authority for immediate action. “Once night falls, the entire park becomes engulfed in darkness, creating an atmosphere of fear among residents who wish to enjoy evening walks,” said Sharma.The RWA requested the installation of at least two high-mast lights as well as decorative light poles to enhance safety within the park and on main roads. Sharma also emphasised the need for proper lighting at key intersections and locations within the sector to prevent accidents and ensure that the public feels safe at night. “It’s essential that the Noida Authority addresses our call for action,” he insisted.Further, in Sector 119, residents demand lights on both sides of the road as well as a high-mast light at the intersection of the sector.While Greater Noida officials’ response is awaited on the light issue at the cremation ground, RP Singh, deputy general manager, Electrical and Water Department, Noida Authority, stated that the residents have two options for lodging complaints: via a dedicated toll-free call centre and through the Noida Smart LED Light mobile app, which aims to facilitate prompt resolutions to public grievances.
