Balasore: The Fakir Mohan University (FMU) in Odisha's Balasore is taking significant steps towards reducing pollution on its campus by becoming completely vehicle-free.

Effective from August 15, this initiative will be implemented not only on its main campus in Balasore but also at its Nuapadhi campus under Remuna block.

To ensure a smooth transition, designated parking spaces will be provided outside the campuses to accommodate vehicles, said Santosh Kumar Tripathy, FMU's Vice-Chancellor.

FMU is committed to ensuring that the new rule doesn't inconvenience its staff, students, and visitors. To facilitate transportation within the campuses, the university plans to introduce battery-operated vehicles and cycles. Additionally, wheelchairs will be available at the entry gates for those who may require them, he said.

Tripathy further expressed his hopes that healthy individuals would opt to walk from the entry gate to their destinations inside the campus.

To support this eco-friendly initiative, the alumni association of the university has generously donated four battery-operated vehicles.