The Society for Automotive Fitness & Environment (SAFE), an initiative by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), is to celebrate World Environment Day on June 5 across 5,500 automobile dealers across the country.

SAFE will organise various activities related to environmental safety and conservation, sustainability and eco-conscious growth. The nationwide initiative, planned for June 5-6, will be extended for a week in select dealerships for better reach and service. It is also organising a number of mass awareness campaigns with a special focus on safety, environment and technology.

Some specific activities will include free day-long PUC (pollution under control) check-ups and issuing of free PUC certificates at various dealers across India. Several unique initiatives such as a drawing competition for children, environment conservation tips for customers, sapling distribution, tree plantation, green processions, and awareness rallies – will also be conducted at dealership outlets. This activity is part of several initiatives from the body to cater to various challenges faced by the sector.

Commenting on the green initiative, Vishnu Mathur, director general, SIAM, said: “World Environment Day provides the Indian automobile industry an ideal opportunity to drive public awareness about key environmental issues. SAFE is founded on the firm belief that community education and public consciousness about environmental issues are pivotal to curb air pollution. Accordingly, all members are coming together to spread awareness among vehicle owners and society at large about creating a cleaner, greener environment. We urge all vehicle owners across India to work towards the cause of safeguarding the environment and help us realise the goal of ensuring sustainable, environment-friendly growth in the coming years.”

Several manufacturers including Ashok Leyland, Bajaj Auto, Ford India, General Motors India, Hero MotoCorp, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, Hyundai Motor India, India Yamaha Motor, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, Nissan Motor India Pvt Ltd, Renault India Pvt Ltd, Skoda Auto India, SML Isuzu, Tata Motors, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and TVS Motor Co will participate in the initiative through their dealerships across the country.