Govt conducts survey, cites it to junk Sena’s criticism over LED lights on Marine drive

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“Thirty years ago, there were white lights on Marine Drive. It was supposed to be a diamond necklace. When sodium vapour lights came, the white lights were replaced because in those days the sodium vapour lights were more efficient. We have not spoilt any heritage, but only restored what used to be,” Goyal said.

Shiv Sena leaders, especially Aditya Thackeray, have strongly disapproved of the white LED lights on Marine Drive, arguing that besides spoiling the landmark Queen’s necklace, the white lights have also dimmed the promenade’s illumination, created dark spots on pavements and threatened safety on the road.

An editorial in Sena mouthpiece Saamna by Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut a few days ago had said there were irregularities in the BJP-supported project of installing LED lights in cities, claiming that at least two ministers could lose their jobs if there is an investigation.

Without naming the publication or the author, Goyal said, “One journalist in your state is trying to project himself as a hardcore Mumbaikar and is writing big editorials making wrong allegations about the LED lights and misguiding public.”

Contrary to allegations, Goyal said, the process was transparent and honest, with the government having a target of saving Rs 80 crore a year by changing all streetlights of Mumbai to LED. The Marine Drive switch alone is likely to result in a saving of Rs 36 lakh a year, he said. The BJP-led government at the Centre has managed to cut the procurement cost of each LED bulb to Rs 81.93 in March 2015 from Rs 315 in February 2014 without compromising on technology and quality, Goyal said.

The minister, however, added he had been told that “the mouthpiece in which he editorial appeared is an independent entity and does not reflect the party’s line”.

Besides claiming that 79 per cent of people were happy with the new lights, the survey also states that 86 per cent said they felt safer after the installation of LEDs, 87 percent were aware of the energy savings, and 71 per cent were satisfied with the colour of the lights.

According to the report, 60 per cent also felt the use of LED streetlights will enhance the heritage status of Marine Drive.

mumbai.newsline@expressindia.com