KARACHI: “Come on count backwards from 60 with me,” urged Asad Shahbaz of the World Wildlife Fund-Pakistan at 8.29pm precisely, just a minute before all extra lights in the Sindh Assembly building were switched off to celebrate Earth Hour (8.30pm to 9.30pm) here on Saturday evening.

The situation was the same at some 134 other landmarks across Pakistan including all the major airports of the country. By observing Earth Hour, Pakistan joined 7,000 cities and more than 160 countries across the world. People pledged to conserve Pakistan’s environment and natural treasures.

In Sindh, Earth Hour was observed at some 51 landmarks. The theme colour for the event was black. The guests including school children and WWF-Pakistan officials all wore black T-shirts. Several bore the message ‘Be a superhero for the planet. Use your power’ with 60 referring to the number of minutes in an hour printed at the front. All waved their glow sticks as the lights were switched off.

The ceremony was led by Minister for Environment Dr Sikandar Mandhro. Earth Hour ambassador Humaima Malick was also present.