Energy efficient LED streetlights are often brighter than traditional luminaires, but poorly planned installations can create unintended dark corners.

Residents living in Marine Drive in Mumbai, India have complained the new LEDs were creating certain dark spots on the road and the lighting did not cover the promenade and side walk, according to a Mumbai Mirror report.

Although, the lights brightness offered 60 lux level readings, it did not spread out in the same way as traditional lights.

"There are dark spots between two LED light poles and the design lacks uniformity," said BEST Chairman Ashok Dhudwadkar. "The proposal to put up lights didn't come up in front of the BEST committee for an NOC. But the BMC is planning to change all the street lights with LED in a year.

LEDs are a point light source, indicating it does not always offer the same diffused light as traditional halogen or sodium vapor lamps. Choosing the right type of omnidirectional LEDs for street applications will be crucial for governments to get the lighting right.