The Insiza Rural District Council (IRDC) has installed 100 solar-powered street lights fitted with surveillance cameras in key areas of Filabusi township, in a move aimed at improving public safety and cutting energy costs.
The project, valued at $35 452, covers residential neighbourhoods, the central business district and major access roads.
IRDC engineer Mthoniselwa Ndebele said the initiative marked a shift in the local authority’s approach to urban management and infrastructure development.
“These lights are powered by renewable solar energy, ensuring uninterrupted illumination during power outages,” he said.
He added that the project was designed to improve visibility at night, enhance security and promote the use of clean energy in line with environmental conservation goals.
The lighting system includes battery storage technology intended to maintain performance and extend its lifespan.
“This system is carefully designed with state-of-the-art battery storage to enhance longevity and performance, guaranteeing that our infrastructure remains robust while reducing dependence on traditional electricity and curbing rising energy costs,” Eng Ndebele said.
According to the council, residents have reported feeling safer walking at night, with officials citing a perceived decline in criminal activity in illuminated areas.
“The use of solar energy significantly reduces the local authority’s electricity expenditure,” Eng Ndebele said.
The council says it is also preparing to integrate smart monitoring systems to allow real-time performance tracking and proactive maintenance.
“The implementation of this contemporary infrastructure marks a crucial step in our Smart City initiative. We are preparing to incorporate intelligent monitoring systems for live performance tracking to guarantee continuous service provision,” he said.
IRDC said it plans to extend the solar lighting programme to other parts of the district as part of its broader sustainability and service delivery strategy.
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