In a significant move to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mission for environmental conservation, political leaders and bureaucrats in Uttar Pradesh have set an example by completely avoiding motor vehicles on their way to work.
Ministers Lead by Example
State minister Dinesh Pratap Singh opted for public transport, using an autorickshaw and bus to commute from his Lucknow residence to his office at Sapru Marg in Hazratganj. Similarly, Daya Shankar Mishra, also known as Dayalu, the state Ayush minister, switched to green energy by using an electric car from Thursday morning.
Shunning Convoys and Escorts
The three leaders shunned their convoys and motorcades, including the security personnel deployed to escort their official cars. MLC Singh, who hails from Rae Bareli, has communicated to the local administration and police chief to avoid providing him an escort during his visit to the neighbouring district. The two ministers also took a pledge alongside the PM to adopt eco-friendly measures to reduce daily consumption of fuel and electricity by embracing a minimalistic lifestyle.
Officials Join the Campaign
Director of SGPGI, Prof. Radha Krishan Dhiman, cycled from his residence to the office on Thursday. He announced a green mobility campaign within the campus and appealed to everyone to take steps to save fuel. He added that the initiative would help conserve petroleum products, reduce pollution, and improve health and fitness among staff and students. He appealed to employees living within 3-4 kilometres of the campus to avoid using motor vehicles for daily commuting and instead adopt walking or cycling.
Similarly, Barabanki district magistrate Ishan Pratap Singh chose to walk to the collectorate from his residence, along with several other staff members. The institute is going to promote the use of bicycles on the campus by creating a dedicated bicycle parking space.
Mayor and Corporators Participate
Varanasi mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari walked to the municipal corporation office and urged staff members to observe all Saturdays as no-fuel day. Several other corporators joined him and expressed their commitment to give up personal vehicles for a few days.
Chief Minister's Decision
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday decided to use only half the fleet of motor vehicles that accompanies him during official visits. He urged his ministerial colleagues and officials to use public transportation and organise virtual meetings as far as possible.
This collective effort by Uttar Pradesh's leaders and officials underscores their dedication to the Prime Minister's vision of a greener and more sustainable future.
