Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Friday walked approximately 500 metres from his official residence, Lok Sewak Awas, to the chief minister's secretariat at 4, Deshratna Marg, accompanied by senior officials. This initiative was a response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce fuel consumption and practice fiscal prudence amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.
Ministers Join the Movement
Panchayati Raj Minister Deepak Prakash walked nearly one kilometre from his official residence to Vikas Bhawan. He stated that, inspired by the calls of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Choudhary, officials and employees of the Panchayati Raj department have been urged to travel to office every Friday using public transport, bicycles, electric vehicles, or on foot, instead of private vehicles. Prakash also appealed to the public to support the campaign and participate in efforts to tackle the global fuel crisis.
State Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwary also adopted an alternative mode of transport, taking an e-rickshaw from his official residence to his office. He emphasised that eco-friendly measures are necessary to reduce daily fuel consumption.
Earlier Measures to Curb Fuel Use
Previously, Chief Minister Choudhary had ordered a reduction in the size of his cavalcade, a step later followed by his cabinet colleagues. He also announced that the state government is considering several measures to curb fuel consumption, including promoting work-from-home and observing a weekly 'no vehicle day'. To reduce travel needs, all state government departments have been directed to conduct meetings through videoconferencing. Additionally, instructions were issued to cut down the use of palm oil in canteens at government offices.
Prime Minister's Appeal
On May 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to use fuel judiciously, postpone gold purchases, and avoid unnecessary foreign travel. He stated that such steps are needed to strengthen the economy and protect people from the adverse effects of the conflict in West Asia.
