City Power is working to replace vandalised streetlights with new solar-powered lights, bringing an end to the dark nights that have plagued motorists and residents along London Road.

According to the utility’s spokesperson, Isaac Mangena, the maintenance project, which will see 120 vandalised streetlights along the road being replaced with solar-powered lights, aims to improve nighttime visibility and safety, while also addressing the growing problem of vandalism and theft in Alexandra and surrounding communities.

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He explained that new solar-powered lights are designed to withstand tampering and are made with materials that have no resale value, making them less attractive to criminals.

The utility is convinced that the move to solar-powered lights will significantly reduce cases of theft and vandalism. “We are going to reduce cases of theft and vandalism because the solar lights carry no resale value in comparison with conventional streetlights, which are often targeted for their fittings, overhead cables used in illegal connections, poles, and other components.”

The lights will function independently, so, if one is hit by a vehicle, other lights will continue operating as they should. They will also remain operational during load shedding and outages, which are common in Alexandra due to network overloading caused by illegal connections.

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Mangena said the solar-powered lights will not only improve safety but also support local economic and development objectives. He pointed to several businesses, public facilities, and informal small businesses in the area, noting that they are vital to the township economy, both during the day and at night.

City Power CEO Tshifularo Mashava emphasised that the project combines innovation, sustainability, and community safety. “By investing in solar streetlights, we are not only reducing crime and accidents; we’re promoting green energy and ensuring that our infrastructure serves the community reliably for years to come.”

Nine new streetlight poles have already been erected, and additional installations are underway. Mangena said their team will be working around the clock to ensure that the maintenance project is completed by the end of September.

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