Unveiling the Spatial Dimensions of Light Pollution in Pakistan: An Emerging Environmental Challenge

Abstract

The study aims to investigates about the growing and serious concern of light pollution as an emerging environmental challenge in Pakistan. The study also attempts to analyze the spatial dimensions of this issue, including its implications for biodiversity and public health. The study also attempts to analyze the spatial dimensions of this issue, including its implications for biodiversity and public health. In Pakistan, a notable research gap exists regarding the environmental impact of light pollution. Despite the absence of policies regulating artificial lighting, and a lack of public awareness on this issue, there is a pressing need for comprehensive research to address and mitigate the adverse effects of excessive artificial light in the country. This descriptive study employs spatial mapping techniques to investigate and highlight the pervasive issue of light pollution in Pakistan. Utilizing geographic information, the research analyzes and visually represents the spatial distribution of artificial lighting, providing a comprehensive understanding of the extent and intensity of light pollution across the country. It is found that the most light-polluted regions in Pakistan encompass the northern, eastern, and central sectors of Punjab, the southwestern and central areas of Sindh, the central part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the western region of Baluchistan. The study indicate that artificial sources of nightlight primarily cause light pollution in urban areas. This heightened light pollution coincides with major urban centers such as Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Karachi, Hyderabad, Peshawar, and Quetta situated in these areas. Due to strong spatial effects, the light pollution extends from urban regions to their neighboring rural areas and depleting their dark spaces. Similarly, it is observed that, this strong spatial effect also causing light pollution alongside Indian border, substantiate the fact that light pollution from the urban regions of India creating light pollution in Pakistan. Furthermore, the study recommends comprehensive policy measures, including zoning regulations, public awareness campaigns, and technological solutions, to mitigate the adverse effects and spatial spread of light pollution.