In 1997, Lucknow took a huge step towards social equality, both for itself and the entire country, when it opened doors to first women’s mosque. Twenty years later, it’s strayed from the norm once more by going solar to help reduce pollution in the city.

Ambar Mosque

Located on PGI Road, Ambar Mosque will now operate on 100 per cent renewable energy. Founder, Shaista Ambar, said that Lucknow’s air quality had reduced drastically over the past few years so the solar panels on the roof will not only feed electricity back into the grid but also improve reduce pollution.

Ambar Mosque

“Over the last few years, air quality in the city has become worse while rural areas of Uttar Pradesh have been suffering frequent power cuts. We all are to be blamed for it and we must all do our bit to improve the air quality and access to electricity. Everybody should have access to clean air and clean electricity. Electricity produced from solar energy does not cause air pollution like coal power plants do. If everyone starts using solar energy then Lucknow’s air quality will start to improve as well as reduce power cuts,” she told Indiatimes.

Reuters

Shaista established the mosque 20 years ago to take a stand against patriarchy. Traditionally in India, mosques are not open to women, who are expected to pray at home.

The founder also said that positive individual efforts to create a sustainable and cleaner environment spread a message of unity not only in India but also across the world.

Cover image is representational