Chandigarh, May 13
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria has directed Union Territory officials to avoid using four-wheelers every Wednesday as part of an effort to reduce fuel consumption and encourage responsible use of resources. Speaking in Chandigarh, Kataria said officials have been advised to use bicycles, public transport, walk to work, or opt for shared rides instead of traveling in private cars once a week. The initiative follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal urging people to cut down on fuel use and adopt more mindful spending habits.
Kataria said the Chandigarh administration is also considering introducing a similar measure for school students. Under the proposal, students may be encouraged to avoid coming to school in cars or scooters one day every week and instead use bicycles, school buses, or walk where possible. The administrator further said he has written to officials handling his security arrangements, asking them to reduce the number of vehicles in his convoy.
The move comes amid a wider push to promote fuel conservation and reduce unnecessary expenditure. In recent days, the Prime Minister has also reduced the size of his own convoy during domestic visits while maintaining mandatory security protocols.
Officials have clarified that the appeal is aimed at encouraging the efficient use of resources and reducing fuel consumption, and should not be viewed as a conventional austerity measure involving cuts to welfare spending or public expenditure.
