Ambala is a city located in the state of Haryana in India. It is situated on the border of Punjab and is about 200 km away from the national capital, Delhi. Ambala is known for its strategic location and is often referred to as the "Gateway of Haryana." The city is home to about 215,000 people and is spread across an area of 45.59 square kilometers.
One of the most striking features of Ambala is its night lights. The city is known for its vibrant and colorful nightscapes, which are a result of the various streetlights, billboards, and illuminated buildings that dot the city's skyline. However, this beauty comes at a cost, as the city also suffers from high levels of light pollution.
Light pollution is a form of environmental pollution that results from the excessive or misdirected use of artificial light. It can have various negative impacts, such as disrupting natural habitats, affecting wildlife behavior, and even affecting human health. In Ambala, the sources of light pollution are primarily streetlights, billboards, and other illuminated structures such as temples, government buildings, and malls.
The level of light pollution in Ambala is estimated to be moderate to high. According to a study conducted by the International Dark-Sky Association, the city has a Sky Quality Meter (SQM) reading of about 18.5 mag/arcsec², which indicates that the city suffers from significant light pollution. This reading is higher than the recommended levels for good night sky visibility, which is between 20.6 and 21.8 mag/arcsec².
The primary factors that contribute to light pollution in Ambala are the city's population density, the prevalence of billboards and illuminated buildings, and the lack of proper regulations for outdoor lighting. The city's inhabitants are largely urban, and the city has a high population density of around 4,718 people per square kilometer. This high density has led to a high demand for outdoor lighting, which in turn has contributed to the city's light pollution.
Another factor that contributes to the city's light pollution is the prevalence of billboards and illuminated buildings. The city is home to numerous temples, government buildings, and commercial establishments, all of which are brightly illuminated at night. These structures are often equipped with high-intensity lights that shine directly into the sky, contributing to the city's light pollution.
The lack of proper regulations for outdoor lighting is also a significant contributing factor to light pollution in Ambala. There are no regulations that require outdoor lighting to be directed downward or shielded, which means that much of the light that is produced is misdirected and contributes to light pollution.
Despite the high levels of light pollution, Ambala remains a popular destination for tourists and visitors. The city is home to several well-known landmarks, such as the Ambala Cantonment railway station, which is one of the oldest railway stations in India. Other notable landmarks in the city include the Bhawani Amba Temple, the Badshahi Bagh Gurudwara, and the Holy Redeemer Church.
The city's inhabitants are known for their industriousness and their entrepreneurial spirit. Ambala is a hub for small-scale industries, and the city is known for its production of scientific instruments, surgical instruments, and handicrafts. The city is also home to a large military cantonment, which has contributed significantly to the city's economy.