Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 14: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday opted to travel by bus instead of using his official convoy while inspecting the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Marg project, reinforcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message on conserving fuel amid ongoing global instability.
During the inspection visit, Gadkari said the country must focus on reducing dependence on conventional fuels and accelerate the transition toward cleaner energy alternatives. He noted that he has been advocating sustainable mobility and alternative fuels for nearly two decades.
The minister highlighted that since 2004, efforts have been underway to promote fuels such as ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, LNG, and green hydrogen. He also pointed out that India has already witnessed the launch of electric scooters, cars, trucks, and buses, with plans now extending to electric machinery and tractors.
According to Gadkari, the shift towards green energy and electric mobility could help create an economic ecosystem worth nearly Rs 2 lakh crore while supporting the vision of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat.” He added that cleaner transportation would also play a major role in reducing pollution levels across the country.
Referring to the present global situation, the minister stressed the need for citizens to use petrol and diesel carefully. He said his decision to travel by bus was aimed at setting an example in support of the Prime Minister’s appeal for fuel conservation.
Recently, Prime Minister Modi had urged people to minimise unnecessary fuel consumption in view of tensions in West Asia and concerns regarding international energy supplies. He also advised citizens to avoid non-essential foreign travel, cut down edible oil consumption, and postpone unnecessary gold purchases for a year.
Following the appeal, several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, have reportedly started implementing fuel-saving measures by reducing the number of vehicles used in official convoys.
Reports further indicate that both Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have scaled down the size of their motorcades, while authorities are increasingly encouraging the use of electric vehicles for official transportation.