Sustainable Cities and Communities

Lovely Professional University (LPU) actively champions Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by embedding sustainability into both its academic curriculum and practical initiatives. Recognizing the growing challenges of urbanization, climate change, and natural disasters, LPU fosters resilient and eco-friendly infrastructure across its campus, including safe departmental buildings, sports complexes, auditoriums, markets, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly zones that enhance comfort while ensuring smooth vehicular movement. Through the Division of Architecture and Planning, students and researchers engage in real-world projects addressing urban challenges, focusing on renewable energy, sustainable waste management, eco-friendly construction, and smart city solutions. LPU also encourages student innovation through hackathons, start-up support, and specialized courses on urban development, equipping future leaders to create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities.

On-campus initiatives translate sustainability into action, with projects such as rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient buildings, waste segregation, and e-waste drives. Cultural and environmental events like World Heritage Day, Earth Day challenges, World Soil Day, and poster competitions promote ecological awareness and highlight the importance of soil conservation, green spaces, and urban ecosystem resilience. Community engagement is central to LPU’s approach, demonstrated through NSS special camps on Environmental Sustainability and Swachh Bharat, which educate participants about water body conservation, pollution mitigation, and sustainable urban practices. These programs inspire civic responsibility, foster collective action, and empower both students and local communities to participate actively in building cleaner, greener, and safer urban environments.

By combining academic learning, practical interventions, and community outreach, LPU integrates sustainability across all aspects of its operations, creating a living model for resilient urban development. The university’s holistic approach ensures that students gain the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to contribute meaningfully to sustainable cities and communities, positioning LPU as a leader in promoting ecological stewardship, social responsibility, and innovative solutions for urban sustainability.

Academic Initiatives:

Lovely Professional University is a vibrant hub of cultural diversity, uniting students from across all states of India and over 50 countries

LPU offers a diverse range of programs at the Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels in Urban Planning and Architecture, preparing future city planners and architects to design sustainable and efficient urban systems. The highly qualified faculty not only delivers quality education but also actively engages in sustainability-focused research. Departments such as Fine Arts and Performing Arts empower students to preserve and promote cultural heritage through creative expression. A notable conservation initiative has revitalized the historic townhouses of University Gardens, enhancing their long-term energy efficiency. The curriculum integrates practical learning through a compulsory placement module, providing hands-on experience in governance, community engagement, and environmental problem-solving. Postgraduate programs further explore the intersection of economic growth and ecological sustainability. Guided by a long-term academic vision and strong global collaborations, LPU ensures that students gain worldwide exposure through prestigious summer school programs, international research collaborations, and student exchange opportunities. The university not only provides transformative opportunities to national students but also welcomes international students, fostering cross-cultural learning and positioning all learners on a global platform. For more information click here

LPU's libraries are state-of-the-art knowledge hubs

LPU's extensive library network, comprising twelve discipline-specific libraries alongside the Central Library, provides invaluable resources for both students and faculty, meeting diverse educational needs. Access to online e-resources further enhances learning opportunities, including for outside researchers. click here


Framework And Guidelines:

LPU's Department of Architecture and Urban Planning has been developing a framework that not only supports sustainable urban residency but also promotes equitable access to resources. The university is dedicated to supporting positive connections between urban and rural areas, strengthening development planning to ensure a sustainable future for all. For many, especially lower-income women, urban areas are often inaccessible or unsafe, limiting their mobility, work opportunities, and independence. Discrimination in employment, and access to services can restrict women’s rights. LPU's guidelines address these issues and are closely connected with efforts to empower women.and teachings focused on inclusive urban planning, emphasizing safer and more accessible spaces for all. In addition to urban-focused initiatives, LPU engages both national and international communities in campus events, showcasing cultural and artistic contributions through art galleries and symposiums. LPU is committed to responsible urban development, repurposing brownfield spaces, and fostering an environment that promotes learning and community engagement. University framework aligns with goals to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable living, inclusive green spaces, and adequate housing and individuals with disabilities.

Initiatives on Sustainable Practices

a. Pedestrian friendly pathways

Lovely Professional University (LPU) is committed to integrating sustainable green practices on its campus, with initiatives that foster environmental stewardship while achieving both short-term and long-term benefits. The university's strategic approach aims to minimize soil, air, water, and noise pollution, conserve natural resources, and reduce human carbon footprints through eco-friendly practices. LPU actively promotes sustainable practices that contribute to environmental protection, social development, and improved quality of life, alongside the conservation of biological diversity and natural resources.
To support these goals, LPU has implemented various initiatives:

  • Green Buildings and Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: LPU has established green buildings that are designed with sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact. All new infrastructure projects focus on resource management and environmentally friendly building practices, ensuring a commitment to green campus development.
  • Pedestrian-Friendly Walkways and Non-Motorized Transport: The campus promotes walking as an eco-friendly mode of transport by providing designated pedestrian pathways. Additionally, students and staff are encouraged to use bicycles, with provisions for bicycle parking outside all major campus buildings.
  • Bicycle and E-Bicycle Sharing Programs: As India’s first ‘Bicycle Friendly University’, LPU has collaborated with Hero Cycles for a unique bike-sharing program featuring nearly 600 bicycles available to students across 15+ stands. Additionally LPU collaborated with HORSE in 2023 to launch a pilot project featuring 150 electric cycles and eight new docking stations. This initiative includes Hexi smart bikes with AI-based redistribution mechanisms that ensure bikes are accessible where they are needed most, reducing pollution and congestion on campus.
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Integration: The campus supports sustainable commuting with e-bicycles and electric scooters, and faculty and staff are encouraged to opt for EVs. LPU’s commitment extends to providing convenient ride-sharing and parking facilities to reduce the carbon footprint of commuting.
  • Eco-Friendly Campus Mobility: LPU operates an e-golf kart service for affordable, eco-friendly on-campus transportation. These zero-emission vehicles enhance campus mobility and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making a significant contribution to air quality. This initiative also includes a solar bus invented by an LPU student, which offers sustainable campus connectivity.
  • Campus-Wide Shuttle Service: LPU’s shuttle bus service connects the campus with nearby areas and major transportation hubs, helping to lower the demand for private vehicles. The university is in the process of transitioning to e-buses to further reduce emissions and support sustainable commuting.
  • Public Bicycle Sharing and Shared Vehicle Parking: To promote sustainable commuting options, LPU offers bicycle-sharing systems and has designated parking areas for shared vehicles. This initiative encourages students and staff to carpool or use non-motorized transport, supporting a reduction in overall vehicular traffic.
  • Grass Paver and Concrete Paver Parking: LPU’s eco-conscious parking solutions include grass paver tiles that promote groundwater recharge while cooling the area during summer. Recyclable interlock concrete pavers are also used in campus roads, showcasing LPU’s sustainable approach to infrastructure.
  • Partnerships for Public Transport Access: LPU collaborates with local public transport authorities to enhance accessibility and frequency of public transit options, including electric three-wheelers for local connectivity, making commuting more sustainable for students and staff.

Public Access

Lovely Professional University (LPU) is dedicated to providing public access to culturally significant buildings and spaces on campus, aligning with SDG 11’s commitment to fostering inclusive, safe, and sustainable urban environments. Visitors, students, faculty, and staff can enjoy free access to key facilities, promoting cultural, educational, and recreational engagement. Access to these areas follows established protocols, including registration at the campus entry point, where valid identification may be required.

LPU offers free public access to its open and green spaces

  • Uni Health Centre: LPU’s on-campus health center is open to the public, offering accessible healthcare for regular check-ups and ensuring the well-being of the campus and surrounding community.
  • University Libraries: University providing public access to its Central Library and 12 school libraries, housing over 6 million books, e-books, and journals. Primarily for LPU's community, these resources are available to the public with special permissions, fostering inclusive knowledge-sharing and supporting community learning.
  • University Museum: LPU’s Tech Museum, showcasing technology’s evolution from vintage cars to innovative prototypes, inspires students and visitors alike. Cultural exhibitions and art events, open to the public, foster rich cultural exchange and learning.
  • University Green Spaces: LPU offers free public access to its open, green spaces, promoting inclusivity and well-being. With registration at the main checkpoint, visitors can visit linked to their work in unoversity and also enjoy serene landscapes, fostering relaxation and a connection to nature.
  • University Auditoriums: LPU’s auditoriums host diverse events—musical performances, theater, dance, and art exhibitions—welcoming visitors as audience members. Celebrating student talent, these events enrich LPU’s vibrant cultural atmosphere.
  • University Mall: The University Mall is a vibrant campus shopping center with diverse shops, dining, and a basement gaming zone, providing students, staff, and visitors a dynamic space to relax and socialize.
  • University Hotel: University Hotel provides comfortable accommodations for guests. Its central location offers convenient access to campus facilities, ensuring an enjoyable stay for those attending events.
  • University Grounds: LPU’s well-maintained grounds are open to visitors, with scenic walking paths, landscaped areas, and tranquil spaces for relaxation, providing an inviting environment for leisurely walks and picnics.
  • LPU Playgrounds: Campus sports and recreational facilities are accessible to students, staff, and the public, with world-class amenities for football, cricket, basketball, tennis, and more.
  • Emergency Services: LPU maintains an on-campus fire station, offering emergency services to ensure safety for both the university and surrounding communities.

LPU's public-access facilities contribute to holistic growth, cultural exchange, and active participation, supporting a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible environment.
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Residential Facility

Affordable and Sustainable Campus Living
Affordable and Sustainable Campus Living

LPU offers an affordable and high-quality residential facility for students, faculty, and staff, presenting a more economical alternative to local housing. With their needs in mind, the university provides well-appointed rooms with superior amenities. The hostel experience comes with numerous advantages.

  • Residential students benefit from after-hours guidance and support from faculty and staff. They can also engage in part-time employment opportunities in labs, the library, the shopping mall, and other areas. LPU adheres to the Government's National Building Code of India 2016 (NBC-2016) in the design and construction of new and existing buildings. To enhance sustainability, the green building concept has been implemented to mitigate thermal effects and reduce electricity consumption.
  • LPU boasts one of the safest campuses globally for its resident students and staff, with over 400 security personnel and its own fire station. The campus is equipped with more than 7,400 CCTV cameras, including PTZ cameras, and features trained security personnel, biometric turnstiles for hostel and library access, and RFID-enabled boom barriers for vehicle entry. Vehicle movement is restricted to designated areas and is constantly monitored.
  • The campus provides world-class amenities, accommodating around 24,000 students and faculty, along with dining options, banking services, ATMs, a post office, salons, transport facilities, convenience stores, and an eight-story shopping mall. Secure entry and exit are ensured through turnstiles and boom barriers, complemented by the extensive CCTV network and fire station.
  • Residential students, faculty, and staff enjoy access to sports facilities, both indoor and outdoor, including a swimming pool, warm-up pool, shooting range, squash court, badminton court, volleyball court, and basketball court, all at 50% subsidized rates. The entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled for uninterrupted connectivity.
  • Additionally, the campus hospital offers free medical consultations to staff and their dependents.

Affordable Housing

Lovely Professional University is committed to enhancing employee welfare through innovative housing initiatives. Recognizing the significance of stable housing, the university has partnered with leading architectural firms to develop affordable housing solutions for its staff. A modern residential complex has been established on campus, fostering a supportive community with 24/7 security and strict visitor policies to ensure safety.

For employees, the university provides:
  • University Staff Quarters: Affordable living arrangements designed for university personnel.
  • Secure Accommodation: Girls' and boys' hostels with round-the-clock security, ensuring a safe living environment.
  • House Rent Allowances: Offered to staff who opt not to reside on campus.
For students, LPU offers:
  • Affordable In-House Residential Facilities: Separate accommodations for boys and girls, available in various configurations (single, double, triple, quad).
  • Comprehensive Amenities: Facilities include common areas, recreational spaces, laundry services, and on-campus resources like libraries and fitness centers.
  • 24/7 Security and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Ensuring a secure and connected living experience.

With a capacity of more than 24,000 rooms, LPU ensures that all students can thrive academically and socially in a nurturing environment, allowing them to focus on their studies without housing concern

Campus Engagement Activities

Lovely Professional University (LPU) is dedicated to preserving and promoting art and heritage through vibrant initiatives that celebrate diverse cultural expressions, fostering a community that thrives on creativity and cultural diversity. Through various annual events, performances, and festivals, LPU contributes to local and national heritage by offering numerous platforms for students to showcase their artistic talents while learning essential skills in event organization, management, and teamwork. These initiatives not only spotlight students’ talents but also uphold SDG 11, encouraging sustainable, inclusive communities that value cultural preservation.

LPU offers free public access to its open and green spaces

Key Initiatives

Cultural Heritage Festivals and Competitions: LPU students actively participate in a variety of cultural and heritage festivals at regional and national levels, showcasing creativity, talent, and unity through diverse art forms. Their achievements at events like the Punjab State Youth Festival 2024, Heritage Festival, and several inter-university competitions highlight the university’s vibrant cultural spirit. On campus, signature events such as “One India” Heritage Festival and “One World” celebration bring together traditions from across the nation and around the globe. These festivals serve as platforms for students to celebrate cultural richness, promote intercultural dialogue, and strengthen the values of inclusivity, respect, and global harmony that define the LPU community.

Cultural Performances and Clubs: LPU organizes a range of inter- and intra-college fests to nurture student talents across various disciplines. Performance-based clubs like Jhankaar Music Club, the Dance Club, Drama Club, and Fashion Club provide platforms for students to hone their skills in music, dance, theater, and fashion, contributing to the cultural ecosystem on campus. Events such as the classical dance performances and Punjabi folk dances further highlight India’s rich cultural diversity, while the Drama Club enables students to explore theater arts as potential career paths or personal development.
Annual Events and Initiatives: Beyond club activities, LPU hosts annual celebrations like “Celebration of Earth Day” This event was all about creating awareness and prompting the plantation which heals mother earth. “Azadi ka Mahotsav” and “Hindi Day”, which promote national pride, linguistic heritage, and a deeper understanding of cultural identity. Online competitions and interdisciplinary events further expand student engagement, bringing together participants from various cultural backgrounds.
Community Outreach and Local Radio: As part of social commitment to community awareness, Lovely Professional University partners with Radio Mirchi and All India Radio through its initiative “Radio Talk @ LPU.” This engaging platform allows students to host interactive discussions on socially relevant themes, including education, sustainability, and cultural preservation. By connecting academic knowledge with real-world issues, the program strengthens public awareness and encourages positive social change. It also provides students with valuable experiential learning in media communication, helping them develop as responsible educators, communicators, and changemakers contributing to an informed and progressive society.
Student Performances and Art Installations: The university regularly organizes public performances by student groups in music, theater, and dance, including the notable “One World” and “One India” festivals that invite national and international students to celebrate cultural diversity. The Wall Art Gallery at LPU showcases student creativity in modern and traditional art, transforming campus spaces into vibrant galleries that enrich the artistic environment.
Webinar on Documentation and Preservation of Cultural Heritage: LPU is committed to preserving intangible heritage through projects that document folklore, local traditions, and languages. This includes engaging with displaced communities and promoting cultural heritage through research, events, and recorded archives, creating a repository that supports cultural sustainability.
Environmental Sustainability in Cultural Events: Reflecting its commitment to SDG 11, LPU incorporates sustainable practices into its cultural initiatives, such as using eco-friendly materials, promoting waste reduction, and implementing sustainable resource management in events. The annual cultural fests are organized with sustainability in mind, fostering awareness and responsible practices among students.
LPU’s art and cultural heritage initiatives not only enhance campus life but also play a significant role in student development. By organizing and participating in events, students develop valuable leadership and organizational skills, along with teamwork and creativity. These fests and programs are designed to challenge students intellectually and aesthetically, enhancing their academic experience and personal growth.
In supporting these events and programs, LPU demonstrates its commitment to enriching students' lives, promoting cultural understanding, and preserving artistic heritage. Through its diverse clubs, public performances, and collaborative radio programs, LPU nurtures a holistic learning environment where students contribute to the cultural fabric of the community, making the university a hub of heritage and artistic expression.
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Work from Home Provision: For females at Maternity / Paternity

  • If the work assigned to an expecting female staff member is of such nature that she may work from home, the University may allow such staff for the same.
  • Flexible working hours options to adjust schedules for childcare purposes including Work From Home and Pay Proportionate Work (PPW).

Secure and Sustainable Architectural Infrastructure:

Lovely Professional University is committed to creating a secure and sustainable campus environment, aligning with SDG 11 through innovative architectural design. The campus features designated multilevel parking, pedestrian pathways, and crosswalks, significantly reducing vehicular hazards.

These initiatives reflect LPU's dedication to ensuring a safe, sustainable, and user-friendly campus.
  • Crosswalks enhance pedestrian safety, fostering a more walkable environment.
  • Pedestrianized areas diminish vehicular traffic, promoting a cleaner campus.
  • Turnstile gate entry restricts access to authorized users only.
  • Green pedestrian walkways connect campus blocks, supporting an eco-friendly atmosphere.
  • Traffic barriers prevent unauthorized vehicular access using efficient identification systems.
  • Segregated entry points streamline movement for vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Campus-wide bicycle parking offers convenient, eco-friendly options at multiple locations.
  • Electric scooter parking includes charging stations for sustainable transportation.
  • Centralized two-wheeler parking accommodates 2,000 vehicles on paved tile floors.
  • Centralized car parking has a capacity of 400 vehicles.
  • E-kart parking zones feature sustainable paved flooring with integrated charging facilities.
  • Eco-friendly footpaths enhanced with green side plants provide a healthy walking experience.
  • Open spaces serve as relaxation areas to support student mental health and de-stressing.

Achievements

Sustainable Copmmunity Development through Enhancing Urban Spaces and NH44 Highway

LPU's proactive role in sustainable urban development

Lovely Professional University (LPU) plays a proactive role in sustainable urban development, collaborating with Government authorities to enhance the area around its campus. The university's Planning and Development Cell is actively involved in the maintenance of the NH44 highway near the campus, enhancing it with lush landscapes, cleanliness, and safe riding signage. Through community-driven initiatives, LPU works with local and national highway authorities to foster collaboration that addresses real-life challenges faced by the community.

Green Champion Award for Sustainable Development

LPU awarded with 'One District, One Green Champion' Award

The Community Connect Programme engages students and faculty in meaningful interactions, strengthening ties with the local population and promoting social responsibility. These initiatives reflect LPU's dedication to sustainable development and its compliance with MHRD regulations and urban planning norms. LPU Ranked Top 10 in Swachh Campus Rankings, Honored with Government of India’s Green Champion Award.

First Indian Campus with Five-Star Green Rating and Green Champion Award

LPU has constructed buildings adhering to rigorous environmental standards, earning the distinction of being the first campus in India to receive a five-star rating from the Green Rating. The university has been honored with the Government of India’s Green Champion Award and recognized as ‘One District, One Green Champion’ by the Mahatma Gandhi National Council of Rural Education (MGNCRE)

Key achievements include:

  • Collaboration with Local Authorities: LPU works closely with local and national highway authorities to improve community infrastructure.
  • Green and Clean Maintenance: The university maintains NH44, enhancing its aesthetics and safety.
  • Sustainable Building Practices: LPU constructs buildings adhering to rigorous environmental standards, earning a five-star rating for its campus.
  • Green Champion Award: The university received the Government of India’s Green Champion Award for its commitment to sustainability.
  • Innovative Green Building Design: LPU integrates energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy sources, and eco-friendly materials in its construction projects.
  • Biodiversity Enhancement: Buildings are designed as natural air filters to improve air quality and support biodiversity.
  • Maximized Natural Light: Open-air interiors promote natural ventilation and reduce energy consumption.

Transforming Brownfields

Lovely Professional University (LPU) has adopted a proactive strategy for community development by revitalizing brownfield buildings previously associated with environmental concerns. Through its Architecture and Planning Department, LPU is transforming these structures into sustainable educational facilities. By repurposing existing sites rather than developing new lands, LPU enhances local ecosystems and promotes eco-friendly designs. This initiative not only strengthens ties with the community but also creates job opportunities, providing practical training for students in civil and related fields. LPU's dedication to brownfield redevelopment aligns with its mission of fostering regional development and environmental sustainability, contributing to a cleaner, greener, and more scenic campus

Future Plans of LPU Aligned with SDG 11

Lovely Professional University (LPU) is committed to enhancing sustainable urban development as part of its initiatives aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11. LPU seeks to create a sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive environment that benefits both the university and its surrounding community

The university aims to further improve its campus infrastructure through following future Initiatives:
  • Brownfield Redevelopment: LPU plans to utilize existing brownfield spaces for new sustainable construction projects, promoting eco-friendly designs and urban renewal.
  • Enhanced Green Infrastructure: Continued investment in lush green belts and pedestrian-friendly pathways to ensure safe, comfortable movement throughout the campus.
  • Public Transport Innovations: Expanding the public bicycle-sharing program to reduce carbon footprints, alleviate congestion, and encourage healthier commuting options.
  • E-Mobility Expansion: Increasing the fleet of e-golf karts to enhance campus mobility and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Community Engagement: Hosting more events that invite public participation and awareness on sustainability issues, fostering stronger community ties.
  • Cultural Heritage Advocacy: Promotion of the university's distinct art and culture, emphasizing the significance of local cultural elements and encouraging their preservation.
  • Sustainable Building Practices: Ongoing commitment to green building standards in all new constructions, ensuring energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

Conclusion

Lovely Professional University (LPU) recognizes the importance of fostering sustainable cities and communities and has adopted several principles and systems to achieve this goal. The university continually explores innovative strategies each year to align with sustainable development objectives. LPU's campus, celebrated for its world-class amenities and natural beauty, serves as a home to students from every state in India and over 50 countries, offering them valuable experiences, job placements, and a platform to share their diverse arts and cultural heritage. Open to the public, the campus features extensive libraries, serene gardens, and vibrant art galleries. The integration of bicycles and electric e-golf karts promotes eco-friendly transportation, enhancing the sustainability and charm of the university environment.

Happenings @ LPU

LPU students, in collaboration with NSS, cleaning nearby roads as part of the Swachh Bharat Cleanliness Drive
Students of Lpu in collaboration with NSS Donating Books to Shape Inclusive, Safe, and Resilient Cities through Education
Clean Drive Success: LPU Students and NCC Unite to Revolutionize Sutlej River Cleanup
LPU students contributed to a sustainable cities initiative in Udaipur, Rajasthan, by assessing the expansion of the sewerage system, focusing on treatment capacity, pipeline enhancements, and future planning.
LPU-NSS students, in collaboration with the Civil Surgeon Jalandhar, led the Pulse Polio Campaign across city areas, advancing SDG 11 to create more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities.
LPU-NSS students conduct a 7-day special camp across various regions, engaging in cleanliness drives, tree planting, sports, and cultural performances to promote environmental conservation, skill development, and cultural preservation.
LPU-NSS students organized the "Joy of Giving" drive, distributing clothes, footwear, blankets, and toys to bring smiles to people of all ages in slum areas, embodying compassion and community spirit.
LPU students, through the NSS Golden Era Outreach initiative, organized activities to enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals in nearby villages.
Local water body “Creek” cleaning activity by students of LPU
An initiative by the university team to provide essential assistance to flood-ravaged areas
Lovely Professional University maintained few kilometers of NH44 nearby University
My Pet Plant" campaign organized locally by planting trees and greenery in public spaces