CM Maryam calls for province-wide Earth Hour observance tomorrow

• Lights to go off from 8:30–9:30pm as Punjab joins global Earth Hour campaign

• Punjab CM urges citizens, especially youth, to lead energy conservation efforts

• Marriyum Aurangzeb tasked with overseeing province-wide campaign

 LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday announced that Earth Hour will be observed across the province on Saturday (March 28), urging citizens to take part with “full enthusiasm” in the global call for energy conservation.

Under the initiative, lights will be switched off from 8:30pm to 9:30pm. The chief minister called on the public to actively support the campaign as a collective step towards environmental protection.

On her directives, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb will oversee the Earth Hour campaign across the province, while the environment secretary has been designated as the focal person for coordination.

Maryam Nawaz stressed that collective action is vital to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations, noting that Earth Hour aims to raise public awareness about energy conservation. She also appreciated the efforts of World Wide Fund for Nature in promoting environmental priorities, and urged citizens—particularly the youth—to adopt energy-saving practices and become part of the global movement for environmental protection.

CM highlights theatre’s role in culture, peace

Meanwhile, in her message on World Theatre Day, the chief minister said the Punjab government is actively promoting cultural exchange and encouraging theatre artists across the province, alongside efforts to revive theatre and ensure artists’ welfare and financial security.

She said the day highlights the importance of theatre, its artistic contributions, and its role in driving social change through live performances. Referring to the 2026 theme, “Theatre and a Culture of Peace,” she underscored theatre’s role in fostering harmony and understanding in society.

Maryam Nawaz extended congratulations to theatre artists and enthusiasts, adding that an Artist Support Fund has been established to assist deserving individuals, with financial aid planned for 1,831 artists. She further noted that theatre halls across Punjab are being upgraded with modern facilities.

Describing theatre as more than entertainment, she said it reflects society and has the power to inspire reform and positive thinking, concluding that it remains a dynamic medium for self-awareness, creativity and the expression of ideas on stage.