The growing global challenge of light pollution significantly threatens this priceless asset, he mentioned in a statement.
Highlighting the intrinsic worth of the night sky as a natural, cultural, and historical treasure, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) underscores the need to safeguard natural darkness to promote conservation, protect ecological balance in preserved areas, and support the well-being of urban communities, stated Prabhu Nath Shukla, deputy director of PTR Maharashtra.
The mounting global issue of light pollution poses a severe danger to this critical resource, he reiterated in his statement.
The International Astronomical Union’s Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society Working Group has advocated for national and local governments to establish “Dark Sky Oases,” Mr. Shukla added.
He further explained that the Dark Sky Place certification prioritizes policies for lighting, retrofitting to dark sky-friendly standards, public outreach and education, and night sky monitoring.
The reserve has launched a night observatory utilizing funds from the district planning committee (DPC). The area near Bagholi has been designated for stargazing activities, he mentioned.
To combat light pollution, over 100 street and community lights in Wagholi, Sillari, Pipariya, and Khapa villages within the Paoni UC Range buffer zone have been replaced with downward-facing lights, he added.
Pench Tiger Reserve is among India’s leading wildlife reserves, home to a significant population of Bengal tigers. It is widely recognized for its exemplary management and operational efficiency. Spanning across the states of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the reserve is jointly administered by both state governments.
Reference: Pench Tiger Reserve Becomes India’s First Dark Sky Park
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