Darkness on SUB-ETF Route Raises Security Alarms

A growing wave of concern has swept through the student population regarding the persistent lack of street lighting along the popular SUB-ETF route. As of mid-January 2026, students have been voicing their fears about the pitch-black conditions that envelope this critical pathway once night falls. The route, which connects major academic areas to the Student Union Building and hostels, has become a source of anxiety for those who study late or have evening activities.

The primary worry for the students is safety. Many have reported feeling unsafe and vulnerable while traversing the dark stretch, fearing potential attacks or theft. The absence of adequate lighting makes it difficult to see ahead or identify approaching individuals, creating an environment that could easily be exploited by criminal elements. This issue is particularly pressing given recent reports of security breaches in other parts of the campus, heightening the general sense of apprehension.

In addition to the security risk, the darkness poses physical dangers. Students have complained about tripping hazards and the difficulty of navigating the path on foot or via commercial motorcycles in poor visibility. The rough patches on the road, combined with the lack of illumination, have led to minor accidents and near-misses, adding to the frustration of the student body who feel that basic infrastructure like streetlights should be a priority.

The Students’ Union and campus journalists have amplified these complaints, calling on the University Management to urgently restore power to the streetlights in the area. They argue that security is proactive, and lighting up major thoroughfares is a fundamental step in preventing crime and ensuring student safety. The administration is under pressure to fix the electrical faults or replace damaged bulbs to restore confidence among the students who use this route daily.