The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in association with the Mahindras has started the use of electrically-powered cars to supplement its transport fleet in Manipal.
The cars were flagged off for duty by Ranjan Pai, Chairman, Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), here on Sunday.
“We are the first to start this eco-friendly initiative in this part of the country,” said MAHE Pro Chancellor, H.S. Ballal. “We already have a lot of other green initiatives on campus, and this is one more from MAHE towards a friendly environment,” he added.
Various green initiatives such as water recycling, green cover development and clean energy generation have earned MAHE the distinction of being one of the best green campuses in the country and it is known globally too for its contribution to sustainability.
“As we have a number of vehicles going to Mangaluru airport every day, to pick and drop our staff and visitors, these cars are going to be really helpful as they do not pollute,” Dr. Ballal said.
“Once fully charged, the vehicles can run about 120 km. There is a charger in the university and the airport authorities have agreed to install one at the airport. One will be made available on MAHE campus in Mangaluru as well,” he said.
Derrick I. Joshua, Assistant Director, Environment Sustainability, MAHE, said that this initiative will help further reduce an estimated 50 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emission per annum.
“This translates to roughly 5,000 additional trees which would otherwise be needed to absorb such emissions. Zero tail-pipe emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides help reduce human health impact on local community. Another significant contributor is that the electricity charging station is fed with solar generated electricity, thus practically implying a zero emission factor,” he said.
