Raipur: Calling fuel conservation a "national duty" amid rising global energy concerns, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday announced a series of measures to curb fuel consumption, starting with his own convoy. Sai stated that only "absolutely essential" vehicles will be part of his official tours henceforth, signaling a move to trim down the often-criticized VIP convoy culture.
Government Vehicle Usage to Be Curtailed
The Chief Minister has also directed ministers, heads of boards and corporations, and senior officials to exercise restraint in the use of government vehicles and resources. Drawing from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for prudent resource use, the CM emphasized that energy conservation is no longer just an economic necessity but a crucial step towards safeguarding the environment and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Transition to Electric Vehicles
The announcement goes beyond immediate austerity. Sai said the state will initiate a phased transition to convert all government vehicles into electric vehicles (EVs), marking a structural shift towards cleaner mobility. "Energy conservation is linked to the future of coming generations. Intelligent use of petrol and diesel is a responsibility we all share," the CM said, underlining the need for behavioral change alongside policy intervention.
Appeal to Citizens
In a parallel appeal to citizens, Sai called for greater use of public transport, adoption of carpooling, and reduction in unnecessary private vehicle use. He stressed that incremental changes in daily habits can collectively lead to significant outcomes, pitching the initiative as a potential mass movement rather than a top-down directive. The measures aim to address both economic and environmental challenges, with the CM urging everyone to contribute to energy conservation as a national duty.
