Earth Hour: Delhi switches off lights, saves 296 MW power

Households, shops and offices across the capital city voluntarily switched off lights for an hour as the clock struck 8.30 pm Saturday and saved 296 MW power as part of the third edition of Earth Hour, a global initiative on climate change. 

The participation in the drive, however, was patchy in the city due to ignorance among people. Also, a majority of commercial establishments, including malls and markets, could be seen illuminated brightly. 

"I have no idea about the Earth Hour. Moreover, we do brisk business in the evenings and cannot afford to switch off our lights," said Suraj Chawla, a shopkeeper in central Delhi's bustling market Karol Bagh. 

Mamta Chandani, a resident of Vasant Kunj in south Delhi, said: "I knew about this because I had read about it in the newspaper but many of my friends and relatives are oblivious. There should have been more advertising of this cause." 

There were many who did their bit to save power. "I switched off all lights and savoured a candlelight dinner on the terrace with my husband. We feel proud to be part of this initiative," said 27-year-old Manupriya Verma, a homemaker. Some resident welfare associations in the city did their bit to enforce Earth Hour by going from house to house and urging people to switch off lights. 

A programme was also organised at the India Gate lawns which included performances by popular dance troupe Adaa and musical band Euphoria. Bollywood star Vidya Balan who is this year's cause ambassador was also present at the event. 

Delhiites came in droves to witness the event and were enthralled by the performances. Colourful balloons were released in the sky as soon as the lights were switched off and the lead singer of Euphoria, Palash Sen began singing. 

"I left my office early this evening and came to support this cause with friends and family. We have been switching off our lights at home every year on this day and have been successful in convincing many of our relatives as well," said Saurabh Gambhir, a 36-year-old chartered accountant.