Veer Narmad South Gujarat University installs anti-suicide fans

Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) in Surat has installed 388 specialized anti-suicide ceiling fans across nine campus hostels. The initiative aims to prevent self-harm attempts by students, particularly those facing exam-related stress.

The safety mechanism uses a spring-loaded system designed to activate if a weight exceeding 10 kg is applied to the fixture. Once triggered, the fan assembly drops downwards and the electrical supply is automatically disconnected, preventing the fan from being used as an anchor point.

The rollout includes 170 fans in five women's hostels and 218 fans in four men's hostels. Each unit costs approximately 1,500 to 2,500 Indian Rupees. Vice-Chancellor Kishorsinh Chavda noted that while no suicides have occurred on the campus, the measure is a proactive precaution aligned with guidelines from the University Grants Commission and government authorities.