Gujarat University declares Mondays ‘No Vehicle Day’ to cut pollution

Ahmedabad: Gujarat University (GU) has initiated a major step to curb fuel use and promote environmental sustainability by designating every Monday as a “No Vehicle Day” on its campus. The decision was conveyed through an official circular issued by the university authorities and will take effect from the coming Monday. The directive will continue to remain in force until further notice.

According to the circular released by the acting registrar, the rule will be applicable to all university departments along with all affiliated colleges. Teaching as well as non-teaching staff members have been instructed to avoid using their private vehicles on Mondays. The main aim of this initiative is to bring down pollution levels on campus and reduce the overall carbon footprint.

The move comes after a recent appeal by the Prime Minister to limit the excessive consumption of petrol and diesel. Earlier, Gujarat University had introduced a carpooling initiative, encouraging staff commuting from the same areas to share vehicles instead of travelling individually. This effort was intended to ease traffic congestion and reduce environmental impact.

University authorities have already communicated the new directive to all affiliated institutions. Principals of colleges, heads of departments and directors of various faculties and buildings have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the rule.

However, despite repeated appeals and an earlier circular encouraging carpooling, compliance among some staff members remained limited. Several senior officials and professors were seen continuing to travel alone in their personal vehicles, disregarding the guidelines. This lack of adherence has raised concerns about how effective such measures can be.

The university administration hopes the introduction of “No Vehicle Day” will instil greater responsibility among staff and aid environmental conservation. Officials believe consistent enforcement of such measures can play a key role in reducing fuel consumption and encouraging sustainable practices within the campus community.