The Tshwane Metro continues to repair and maintain streetlights in Ward 12 in Mabopane.

Ward councillor Donald Khotso Tsela said addressing the backlog of reported streetlight faults remains one of his priorities.

While the work has yielded results, several complaints involving broken streetlights and high-mast lights have been submitted for attention.

Tsela said functioning public lighting was an important part of improving safety in the community, particularly in areas where residents have raised concerns about crime and vandalism.

He warned that vandalism and crime should not become persistent challenges for residents, and called on the community to play a role in protecting municipal infrastructure.

“Residents must help safeguard municipal infrastructure and report vandalism or damage to public lighting infrastructure,” said Tsela.

The councillor also said he intended to strengthen the capacity of Community Policing Forums (CPFs), particularly in areas that are most affected by crime.

For residents, the restoration of streetlights is not only about improving the appearance of neighbourhoods but also about creating safer conditions for people returning home after dark.

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Resident Sechaba Malema said functional streetlights were particularly important for people who work late shifts and often have to walk or travel through their neighbourhoods at night.

“Some residents only get home at around 22:00 after a long day at work. When the streets are dark, you become much more vulnerable, especially when walking from transport stops to your home,” said Malema.

Another resident, Boitumelo Phasha, said residents should not have to worry about navigating dark streets after working hours.

“People are coming home late in the evening and they need to be able to see what is happening around them.

“A working streetlight can make a big difference because you can see other people, vehicles and possible dangers,” said Phasha.

Tsela said community co-operation would remain essential to ensure that repaired streetlights are protected and continue serving residents.

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