On March 28, millions around the world will unite for Earth Hour, one of the largest global environmental movements. From 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM local time, people, businesses, and landmarks will switch off their lights for an hour to show support for the planet. In Hyderabad, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has called on residents to participate in Earth Hour 2026.

Started by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in Sydney, Australia, in 2007, Earth Hour began as a symbolic “lights out” event to raise awareness about climate change. Over time, it has grown into a global movement spanning more than 190 countries and territories. The year 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of Earth Hour. While turning off lights is symbolic, the initiative encourages conversations about climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable living, showing how small collective actions can create meaningful impact.

Switching off lights for an hour in a single home may seem minor, but millions doing so worldwide sends a strong message to leaders and corporations to adopt climate-resilient policies. Earth Hour also encourages people to “Go Beyond the Hour” by embracing eco-friendly habits such as reducing waste, conserving water, and using renewable energy.

GHMC Commissioner R. V. Karnan urged residents, commercial establishments, and industries to voluntarily switch off non-essential lights from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM. RWAs, youth groups, and civil society organizations have been encouraged to lead efforts in their neighborhoods. Iconic buildings and municipal offices will participate by dimming lights. As 8:30 PM approaches, Hyderabadis are invited to step away from screens, switch off lights, and dedicate an hour to the Earth.