MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis arrived at the Vidhan Bhavan on a motorcycle on Thursday to attend the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected members of the legislative council. This action follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to reduce fuel consumption amid concerns over rising energy pressures due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, as reported by news agency PTI.
Symbolic Gesture for Fuel Conservation
Fadnavis traveled from his official residence ‘Varsha’ to the Vidhan Bhavan in South Mumbai on a motorcycle, accompanied by BJP leader and minister Ashish Shelar. In another symbolic gesture aimed at conserving fuel, Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane walked to the Mantralaya, the state secretariat, to attend the cabinet meeting.
Austerity Measures Announced
On Wednesday, Fadnavis announced a set of austerity measures, including reducing the number of vehicles in ministers’ convoys by half and canceling foreign tours of ministers and government officials. The BJP-led Maharashtra government stated that these measures were introduced in response to PM Modi’s call to save fuel and foreign exchange as tensions in West Asia continue to affect global energy supplies. India remains heavily dependent on the region for crude oil and gas imports.
Implementation of the Drive
According to an official statement issued on Wednesday, the number of vehicles in ministerial convoys during outstation visits should remain within the prescribed limit. The police commissioner or superintendent of police concerned will be responsible for ensuring compliance. The state government will also conduct a strict review of vehicles allotted to various departments as part of the austerity drive.
