1. Title of the Practice:
No fuel day
2. Objectives of the Practice:
The institution wishes to provide pollution free atmosphere at least once in a week.
In order to enhance the awareness about environmental protection and to actively involve the students for the same, the IQAC/Eco Club along with the Principal and staff of the college decided to go for No fuel day. The idea is to minimize the use of vehicles, to encourage the use of bicycles and to promote public transportation so that the fuel is saved and less pollution is emitted. The objective behind implementing this practice is to create awareness about global warming caused by fossil fuel burn and its impact on Indian economy.
3. The Context:
As maximum number of students are from rural areas, so they come by taking a walk riding on a bicycle. Few students travel by public transport to come to the college. Some of them who come from far off places take two-wheelers as other efficient modes of commuting aren’t available to reach the college. Most of the students and faculties rely on their personal bikes and vehicles that run by fuel. Gharghoda town is situated in a location surrounded by many factories and air is polluted by the gases released from these factories. Environmentalists all over the world are raising concerns over the global warming and impact of motor vehicles in emission of poisonous gases. So, the Principal and staff of the college decided to start the practice of ‘No fuel day’ on every Saturday in the college premises. In this way, the institution tries to play its part in environmental protection.
4. The Practice:
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Noticing the negative impact of fossil fuel on our planet and ultimately on our health, the practice of avoiding vehicles for small distance is encouraged. This will give way to active and healthy life-style.
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India is relying on fossil fuel imported from the gulf countries to cater the energy requirements and is spending a handsome foreign currency to purchase it. By introducing this practice, unnecessary fuel consumption can be brought down. This will not only help to reduce the air pollution but also boost our economy.
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No fuel day would mean that both staff and students should come to their respective campuses once a week either by walking or using a bicycle or an electric vehicle or public transport.
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The staff and the members of the Eco Club inspired the students to observe No fuel day on Saturdays and take only mass transportation for efficient usage of fuel. This will help somehow to reduce the poisonous gases exhausted in the atmosphere bythe motor vehicles.
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The students are told that they can get student-concession in bus fare, if they show their identity card.
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The decision is taken that nobody will be compelled to follow, the practice will be entirely voluntary in nature.
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The approach roads to the college are made pedestrian-friendly and accessible.
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The staff of the college that generally come by following car-pool is also encouraged to use public transport on Saturdays.
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The volunteers are appointed by the Eco Club to look after the application of this practice.
5. Evidence of Success:
The Students and staff members of the college enthusiastically followed this practice and gave their valuable contribution in minimizing the vehicle use and controlling air pollution. Normally, around 75 two-wheelers are found in the campus on a normal working day. However, on this day the number reduced to 6. People preferred public transport. Four-wheeler users also shared their vehicles on that day. This practice certainly helped firstly. in reducing pollution caused due to the smoke emanating from vehicles and secondly, cutting down traffic congestion in the town. Students are having the feelings of self-righteousness and patriotism as they are contributing to conserve the nature and saving the government’s money. They are also encouraging their friends and neighbors to use bicycle or electric bike for travelling in the town.