**Indore to Observe ‘No Car Day’ Once Again to Combat Traffic and Pollution**
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Continuing the tradition from the previous two years, Indore is set to observe “No Car Day” on Monday to ease traffic congestion and reduce air pollution levels in the city.
The Indore Municipal Corporation has urged residents to refrain from using their private cars and instead opt for public transportation. Additionally, the stretch from Geeta Bhawan to Palasia will be designated as a “car-free zone” for the day.
The initiative aims to encourage citizens to switch from private vehicles to eco-friendly alternatives such as bicycles, public transport, and walking. The campaign has already shown remarkable results in past years.
In 2023, Indore recorded a saving of 80,000 liters of fuel and witnessed an 18% improvement in air quality. That year, city leaders—including Collector Dr. Ilayaraja T, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, then Police Commissioner Makrand Deuskar, and then Municipal Commissioner Harshika Singh—led by example by avoiding the use of cars themselves.
Building on this success, the 2024 campaign expanded to include painting competitions, mascot launches, and musical events. As a result, the city saved 150,000 liters of fuel and saw a 38% improvement in air quality. The initiative has grown into a strong public movement embraced by citizens citywide.
For this year, the programme has been designed to be even more engaging. On the eve of “No Car Day,” the popular Chhappan Dukaan area hosted a musical evening where officials and traffic heroes appealed to citizens to support the cause.
On Monday morning, a cyclothon will be organised from Palasia to Rajwada and back, with participation from officials, public representatives, and large groups of citizens. The day will also feature a live painting competition and various cultural activities along the Geeta Bhawan–Palasia stretch.
According to official data, around 4.20 lakh cars and nearly 4,000 taxis operate daily in Indore, contributing significantly to the city’s environmental footprint. Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav has urged citizens to actively participate in the initiative.
“I appeal to everyone to avoid using cars on September 22 and be part of this movement for a cleaner, pollution-free Indore. Our collective efforts today will ensure clean air and a healthier future for the coming generations,” said the Mayor.
**FP View**
The mayor’s call for ‘No Car Day’ should not only be welcomed by citizens but embraced wholeheartedly. Small initiatives like these, when practiced regularly, can evolve into habits that promote the use of public transport, offering numerous benefits.
From reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality to easing the financial burden on individuals and saving fuel, such efforts have a significant positive impact. Most importantly, the city enjoys respite from chaotic traffic—even if just for a day.
Free Press fully supports this initiative and urges residents to say ‘no to personal cars’ and opt for public transportation. Remember, sometimes small changes lead to big results.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/support-the-noble-cause-of-indore-say-no-to-car-on-monday-to-ease-traffic-and-lower-air-pollution