Antigua Public Utilities Authority has been urged by the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda to make “immediate and visible” progress in installing and repairing streetlights nationwide.
The demand follows a Cabinet briefing by APUA’s electricity manager, Andre Matthias, after the government approved a comprehensive street and community lighting improvement programme.
According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin told officials the Cabinet would not accept assurances without clear results.
He quoted Sir Steadroy as saying the utility had the necessary resources and should demonstrate progress by lighting up areas where residents have complained of darkness.
Ambassador Dianne Black-Layne said hundreds of streetlights are already available for installation, removing supply constraints as a barrier. Public Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas has pledged to oversee the implementation of the directive.
The Cabinet also addressed ongoing vandalism of lighting infrastructure. Merchant said newly designed lampposts would position battery packs and other components higher up to deter theft.
APUA plans to install surveillance cameras on selected poles, particularly along extended roadways. Police have been asked to increase patrols and monitor newly completed installations.
Existing foundations, including along Friars Hill Road, will be used where possible as the rollout continues.