Shimla, May 19
In a significant step aimed at reducing fuel consumption and controlling government expenditure, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has introduced carpooling for judges and a work-from-home policy for a section of its employees.
Acting on directives issued by the Central Government and the Supreme Court, the High Court has decided that judges will travel together in shared vehicles to minimize petrol usage and promote efficient use of resources.
The new measures were ordered by Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and have come into immediate effect. In accordance with the directions, the Registrar General issued an official circular detailing the implementation process.
According to the circular, up to 50 percent of staff in each branch or section of the High Court registry may work from home for up to 2 days a week. The remaining employees will continue to work from the office to ensure that court operations and administrative work remain unaffected.
To manage the arrangement smoothly, registrars have been directed to prepare weekly duty rosters in advance. Employees working remotely will be required to remain available by phone at all times and to report to the office immediately if called upon.
The High Court administration also clarified that departments performing essential work where remote work is not feasible will be exempt from the work-from-home policy.
The initiative is being seen as part of broader efforts to promote fuel conservation, reduce operational costs, and encourage efficient administrative practices within the judiciary.
