Patna: Amid Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce fuel consumption in view of global energy supply disruptions, the Bihar government has decided to arrange electric or battery-run vehicles for ministers and various departments. Officials said the move would not only help reduce fuel consumption but also bring down pollution levels, which remain a serious concern.
Minister Announces Electric Vehicles for All Departments
"All ministers in the government as well as departments will soon be provided with electric or battery-run vehicles," rural development and information and public relations minister Shrawan Kumar told reporters on Tuesday while urging ministers to minimize fuel consumption. "The ministers should make maximum use of electric or battery-run cars," Shrawan said. He added that the state government was already serious about the issue and Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, during his first interaction with ministers, had also asked cabinet colleagues to reduce petrol and diesel consumption.
Environmental Concerns Drive Decision
He said the world was facing the serious consequences of rising pollution and rapidly changing climatic conditions. Responding to opposition criticism that those in power themselves move in large convoys despite the PM's advice, Shrawan said ministers are required to follow security protocols. "There will be much hue and cry if there is any security lapse due to ignoring the protocol, yet the ministers should try to travel in convoys with fewer vehicles," he said.
Clarification on PM's Appeal
Rejecting the opposition's attack, the minister clarified that the PM had not asked people to stop travelling for urgent work. "The PM never said people should not travel for urgent work. They must travel if required. What he meant was that citizens should reduce unnecessary fuel consumption in the present situation," he said.
Opposition Criticism
His remarks came after opposition leaders criticized ruling alliance ministers and leaders for frequent air travel and the use of long vehicle convoys despite appeals for austerity. "We found many political bigwigs present on the dais in Guwahati when Himanta Biswa Sarma took oath as the chief minister on Tuesday," senior RJD leader Bhai Arun said.
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About the Author
Manoj Chaurasia is a senior political journalist having experience of working for top national and international media in a career spanning over 25 years. He loves writing political, offbeat and human-interest stories.
