PGI Chandigarh has launched an austerity campaign aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and conserving resources amid the ongoing economic crisis. As part of this initiative, the institute will replace fuel-guzzling cars with bicycles and introduce digital screens in waiting rooms.
Cycling Encouraged for All Staff
The campus-wide initiative encourages all employees, including senior doctors living within residential sectors, to cycle to work. This directive follows the Prime Minister’s call to restrict non-official travel and voluntarily embrace resource conservation. PGI director Prof Vivek Lal stated, “Non-official travel is being voluntarily restricted by our staff. Cycling is being encouraged.” He clarified that the work-from-home option is not available for staff.
Telemedicine Initiative to Reduce Burden
PGI is also launching a major telemedicine initiative to ease the burden on patients and hospital infrastructure. Four key departments—endocrinology, gastroenterology, pain clinic, and pediatric dentistry—have already generated digital IDs and are fully equipped to transition to virtual follow-ups. This digital follow-up is expected to drastically reduce patient waiting times, save fuel, and significantly cut down the institution’s carbon footprint. Since the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has not yet issued official mandates regarding these austerity measures, PGI’s proactive stance is a self-regulated green movement.
Summer Vacation Sparks Debate
Moreover, the summer vacation for 50% of the faculty has officially commenced, sparking internal debate on resource management. A senior faculty member commented, “This vacation period is the absolute best time to conserve hospital resources. Even though most of these faculty members voluntarily come to the office during their leave to pursue research, they should be discouraged from doing so right now to maximise utility savings.”
This initiative reflects PGI’s commitment to sustainability and resource conservation, setting an example for other institutions.
