Hidden Night Skies: Why don't We See the Stars Anymore? Light pollution in India

Hidden Night Skies
Why don't We See the Stars Anymore?

Night time construction activities are a great source of light pollution - © Weather & Radar Team in Bengaluru

We often hear about air or noise pollution, but how many of us know about light pollution?

More than a half of world's population is living in cities and have never seen the Milky Way in their life.

In India, our cities are highly polluted with unnecessary light which is not needed and ends up wasted up in the air. Light pollution grows at 2% annually across the country.

Light Pollution increases in India by ca. 2% every year - © lightpollutionmap.info

Light pollution is a major concern for our human health. It disturbs our circadian rhythm/biological clock and adversely impacts our eyesight and well-being.

Mammals, reptiles, insects, birds and bats suffer a lot due to the increasingly bright nights. Light disrupts their reproduction, predation and migration.

Prolonged exposure to artificial light and excessive lightning can damage our eyesight

We also end up wasting valuable resources, energy and money by putting on light where it is not needed or not using the lights correctly. Many street lamps light up the sky instead of our streets.

Switch on the high beam lights only if necessary

Night time construction activities with an abundance of lightning are a great disturbance to both humans and animals.

What can each of us do to curb light pollution?

Use bulbs with lower wattage bulbs: It will also help you save electricity and reduce CO2 emissions

If you drive a car, don't use high beam in the city. Switch it on only of necessary. This will also prevent accidents and is helpful for traffic on the opposite side