By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: It is time to welcome the latest fad in energy-efficient lighting. Light-emitting diodes – better known as LEDs and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) will illuminate Shillong’s streets shortly.
LEDs use small, powerful sources of light that illuminate when electrons move through a semiconductor. They shine in only one direction thereby increasing luminous efficacy or brightness.
The decision to install CFL and LED lights was taken at a joint meeting held among the officials from Urban Affairs department, MeECL and non-conventional energy department here on Thursday.
Out of the 4180 lights, 1080 will be CFL lamps, while 3100 will be LED lights to be put in Greater Shillong area.
Informing this, Urban Affairs Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said, “We will go aggressively to illuminate Shillong and people are in for a surprise as many parts of city at present remains under darkness.”
The project will be implemented as well maintained by the MeECL, she said
According to Lyngdoh, the project will be completed by November this year.
The entire installation cost will be shared by the Central Government as well as the Urban Affairs department.
Out of the total cost, Rs 90 lakh and Rs 60 lakh will be borne by the Shillong Municipal Board and the MUDA respectively.
It may be mentioned that absence of proper street lights in the city is in contrary to other capital cities in the country where at least the main roads are well illuminated. Better street lights help controlling various crimes like theft, robbery etc.
Though Shillong is the capital city, yet several streets and main roads in the city remain under the cover of darkness due to lack of proper street lights.
