Vadodara: Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) observed its first 'No Vehicle Day' on Monday, with university authorities reporting encouraging participation from faculty members, officers, non-teaching staff, and students present on campus.
Initiative Background
The initiative, under which every Monday will be a No Vehicle Day, was launched in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for fuel conservation and sustainable living. The university has urged members of the MSU community to avoid using private vehicles and instead opt for walking, cycling, public transport, carpooling, or other eco-friendly modes of travel.
First Day Implementation
On the first day of implementation, several internal roads across the sprawling campus witnessed reduced vehicular movement. Many faculty members and employees chose alternative modes of transport in support of the campaign. Vice-chancellor Prof Bhalchandra Bhanage rode pillion on an electric two-wheeler, while registrar Prof K M Chudasama walked to the campus. Dean of the faculty of commerce, Prof Pragnesh Shah, arrived on a bicycle. Several deans, heads of departments, senior faculty members, and employees at the university headquarters also refrained from using private vehicles.
Official Response
Prof Hitesh Raviya, OSD, public relations and communications, described the initiative as a success. 'It reflects MSU’s commitment to environmental protection and social responsibility,' he said.
Challenges and Limitations
However, participation was not universal. Several non-teaching staff members residing far from the campus said they had little choice but to use their two-wheelers. Faculty members also pointed out that limited public transport connectivity within the city makes daily commuting difficult for many employees.
Future Prospects
The campaign is yet to face its biggest test. With the university currently operating during the summer vacation, student presence on campus remains relatively low and regular academic activities have not fully resumed. As a result, daily vehicular traffic is significantly lower than what is typically seen during the academic session. While the first Monday passed without major issues, the true measure of the campaign’s success will emerge once the new academic session begins and thousands of students return to classrooms, hostels, and other campus facilities.
