Analysis of the Factors Causing Damage to Public Street Lighting Lights in Binjai City, North Sumatra Province

Abstract

Public street lighting (Penerangan Jalan Umum, PJU) is essential infrastructure that supports public safety, security, and economic activities in Binjai City, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. However, numerous streetlights have experienced operational failures, including complete outages and reduced illumination, compromising the quality of public services. This study aimed to identify the factors contributing to public street lighting failures, determine the most significant causes, and propose preventive measures to improve system reliability. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through direct field observations, in-depth interviews with representatives of the Housing and Settlement Areas Office, technical maintenance personnel, and local residents, as well as document reviews. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicated that street lighting failures resulted from a combination of technical factors, including component aging and inadequate material quality; environmental factors, such as extreme weather conditions and vegetation interference; budgetary constraints; and external factors, including vandalism and theft. Inadequate preventive maintenance emerged as the most significant contributing factor, characterized by the absence of a regular maintenance schedule and a predominantly reactive repair system dependent on public complaints. Recommended measures included establishing a scheduled preventive maintenance program, implementing technology-based monitoring systems, using components that meet applicable technical standards, increasing maintenance budget allocations, and strengthening community participation in protecting public lighting infrastructure. These measures were expected to improve the reliability, operational efficiency, and sustainability of public street lighting services in Binjai City.