Gujarat varsities roll out weekly “No Motor Vehicle Day” initiative

In reponse to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation and sustainable lifestyles, universities in Gujarat have begun rolling out initiatives to cut fuel usage and promote greener practices across campuses.
Sardar Patel University (SPU) has introduced a series of measures encouraging faculty members and staff to reduce dependence on private vehicles and shift towards public transport and carpooling.SPU Vice-Chancellor Niranjan Patel appealed to teaching as well as non-teaching employees to adopt shared travel options wherever possible. The university has also started free bus services for employees staying in the staff quarters,with services aligned to office timings. As part of the awareness drive, Patel himself has begun walking between his residence and the university campus instead of using a vehicle.
At the same time, Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) of Baroda has proposed observing one day every week as a “No Motor Vehicle Day” to encourage environmentally friendly commuting methods among students and staff.In a circular issued by Registrar K M Chudasama, the university advised departments, hostels, colleges and administrative offices to minimise avoidable travel, encourage virtual meetings and switch off electrical appliances such as lights, fans, air conditioners and computers when not required.The circular noted that small but collective steps could play a meaningful role in conserving fuel and protecting the environment. Chudasama said the campaign was also aimed at creating greater environmental awareness and responsibility among students and employees.Earlier, Gujarat University had launched similar efforts encouraging the use of carpooling and public transportation as part of sustainability-focused campus initiatives.

(State Correspondent)