Gujarat varsities step up fuel-saving drive on campuses

Vadodara: Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation and sustainable living, universities across Gujarat have started introducing measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption and promoting environmental awareness on campuses.

Sardar Patel University (SPU) in Vallabh Vidyanagar has launched free bus services for staff members and encouraged employees to use public transport and carpooling. At the same time, Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) of Baroda has issued a detailed circular urging students and staff to adopt energy-saving practices and reduce unnecessary use of vehicles.

SPU vice-chancellor Niranjan Patel appealed to both teaching and non-teaching staff to avoid using personal vehicles wherever possible and instead opt for shared or public transport. The university has also started free bus services for employees residing in the staff colony, with services aligned to office timings.

In a symbolic move to promote the initiative, Patel has begun walking between his residence and the campus instead of using a vehicle.

Meanwhile, MS University has proposed observing one day every week as a “No Motor Vehicle Day”. The university administration has advised staff and students to prefer cycling, walking, public transport and shared commuting options to help cut fuel consumption.

In a circular issued by MSU registrar K M Chudasama, the university said that small collective efforts could make a significant contribution towards national fuel savings and environmental protection.

The circular also instructed departments, colleges, hostels and administrative sections to avoid unnecessary travel, encourage virtual meetings and switch off electrical equipment such as lights, fans, air conditioners and computers when not in use.

Chudasama said the initiative was aimed not only at reducing fuel use but also at instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among students and staff members.

Earlier, Gujarat University had also initiated measures encouraging employees to adopt carpooling and public transport as part of similar sustainability efforts.