New Delhi’s iconic India Gate will turn off its lights on Saturday night from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. IST as part of Earth Hour 2026. This global initiative encourages people to switch off non-essential lights for an hour to raise awareness about climate change and environmental sustainability. Earth Hour, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, promotes collective action for the planet.
Earth Hour, organized annually by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), started in 2007 as a symbolic event in Sydney, Australia. It has evolved into a significant grassroots environmental movement, involving millions of individuals, businesses, and landmarks in over 190 countries and territories. City authorities in India are urging residents to participate by turning off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances during the designated hour.
In Hyderabad, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is actively encouraging citizens to join Earth Hour 2026 by switching off lights from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan emphasized the importance of this symbolic gesture, stating that dedicating just one hour to the planet can inspire meaningful change and contribute to a sustainable future. Earth Hour aims to prompt reflection on environmental impact and foster a commitment to sustainability.
Not only in India but worldwide, significant landmarks, public spaces, and homes will participate in the symbolic lights-out event to highlight the urgency of climate action and natural resource conservation. Last year, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and other national monuments also took part in similar observances, underscoring the cultural significance of the campaign in the country. Environmental experts emphasize that Earth Hour is not just symbolic but also a reminder of the collective responsibility to address climate change by reducing energy consumption and supporting eco-friendly policies and practices.
