Work from home, carpooling amid energy crisis: This university issues new advisory after PM Modi’s appeal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to save fuel amid the ongoing global energy crisis has started reflecting in institutional decisions across the country, with Gujarat University issuing a fresh advisory promoting carpooling, public transport and online work practices for its staff and officials.

The circular was issued after Modi, during a recent address in Hyderabad, urged citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption and adopt lifestyle changes similar to those seen during the Covid-19 period. His remarks came amid rising global energy concerns linked to the ongoing tensions in West Asia.

What Gujarat University said

According to the university’s advisory, employees and officials have been encouraged to adopt carpooling and travel together with colleagues living nearby instead of using separate private vehicles.

The university also advised staff members to use public transport facilities such as metro services, electric buses and other shared transport systems wherever possible.

Officials said the move aims to support environmental protection, reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency in daily commuting.

The circular has reportedly come into effect immediately following directions from the Vice-Chancellor, and the guidelines will apply across all university departments and buildings.

Push for online work, virtual meetings

Apart from transport-related measures, the university has also stressed reducing unnecessary travel and encouraging online work practices.

The advisory promotes virtual meetings and digital coordination to minimise physical movement and fuel usage. The move mirrors Modi’s broader appeal encouraging institutions and offices to revive work-from-home style practices wherever feasible in the national interest.

The Prime Minister had said online conferences and virtual meetings could significantly cut travel needs and help save fuel during the ongoing crisis.

PM Modi’s major fuel-saving appeals

During his speech, Modi outlined multiple suggestions aimed at reducing India’s fuel dependence and import burden.

Some of the key appeals included:

• limiting petrol and diesel usage
• promoting carpooling
• encouraging work from home and virtual meetings
• increasing use of public transport
• preferring electric vehicles
• shifting goods transport towards railways
• reducing non-essential foreign travel

He also urged citizens to prioritise Made-in-India products and adopt energy-conscious habits in daily life.

Will India go into lockdown amid West Asia crisis

Despite comparisons with Covid-era restrictions, the Centre has not announced any lockdown or mandatory restrictions.

The government has maintained that the suggestions are precautionary measures aimed at reducing economic pressure arising from global fuel volatility and supply concerns amid the West Asia conflict.