Dead street lights across Yercaud spark concern among residents, tourists

Residents and tourists visiting Yercaud have demanded proper street lights, as most of them remain non-functional.

Yercaud, a popular alternative to hill stations such as Ooty, attracts thousands of tourists during weekends, holidays, and the summer months.

The number of people visiting Yercaud has increased as schools across the State have declared half-yearly holidays.

However, tourists rue that most of the street lights in the hill station remain non-functional.

N. Gnanavel, a resident of Tiprari Road in Yercaud, said this had been the condition of street lights, especially those in important locations, for the past one year.

“We have raised this issue with the local panchayat officials, but they blame the Tangedco. Eight months ago, the issue was resolved, and the street lights were functioning in all areas. However, after a week, they stopped working again.”

“Indian gaurs roam around the hill station. Three months ago, a motorcycle rider hit a gaur and sustained injuries. Considering the safety of local residents and tourists, the officials should act quickly,” Mr. Gnanavel said, pointing out the need for street lights.

V. Periyasamy, a resident, said that areas such as Anna Park and the Roundabout earlier had functioning street lights but had no lighting facilities now.

People who are new to the hill station struggle to travel through poorly lit areas, Mr. Periyasamy added.

When contacted, officials from the Yercaud Block Development Office said the faulty street lights would be repaired within a week.