Banshidhar Tiwari Sets an Example by Cycling to Office Amid Uttarakhand’s Fuel Saving Drive
Following the fuel conservation appeal made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Uttarakhand government under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched several major initiatives to reduce fuel consumption and promote sustainable transportation. However, beyond government orders and policy announcements, one official’s action has now become the center of attention across the state. Banshidhar Tiwari Leads by Example Banshidhar Tiwari, Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, Director General of Information, and MDDA Vice Chairman, chose to cycle to his office instead of using an official vehicle. He travelled from his residence on Sahastradhara Road to the Information Directorate on Ring Road, sending out a strong message about energy conservation and responsible leadership. His decision quickly became a talking point among officials and the public, as it reflected the idea that true leadership is not only about issuing instructions but also about personally following them. Government’s Major Fuel Saving Measures The Uttarakhand government has recently approved several reforms aimed at reducing fuel dependency. The Chief Minister and cabinet ministers have reduced the use of official vehicles by 50 percent. The state has also introduced a weekly “No Vehicle Day” to encourage ministers, public representatives, and government officers to use public transport. In addition, the government has approved work-from-home options for employees to reduce daily commuting and fuel consumption. The state is also expanding its Electric Vehicle (EV) policy, under which more than 50 percent of newly purchased government vehicles will be electric. A Message Beyond Administration Banshidhar Tiwari’s initiative is being viewed as more than just a symbolic act. At a time when fuel conservation and environmental protection have become national priorities, his effort highlighted how individual responsibility can strengthen government campaigns. His bicycle ride to office has now emerged as a practical example of sustainable governance, inspiring many officials and citizens to adopt eco-friendly habits in their daily lives.
Fuel Crisis Impact: CM Dhami Announces Work From Home and “No Vehicle Day” Policy
The impact of the ongoing global war is now being seen in India as well. Amid rising fuel concerns, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently appealed to citizens and companies to reduce unnecessary travel and minimize fuel consumption. He also urged companies to adopt Work From Home policies and advised schools and colleges to conduct virtual classes wherever possible. Uttarakhand Government Takes Major Decision Following the Prime Minister’s appeal, the Uttarakhand government has taken major decisions to save fuel and conserve energy. In a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the government decided to implement new energy-saving policies across the state. The administration will promote video conferencing-based meetings in government departments and encourage Work From Home in the private sector as well. “No Vehicle Day” to be Implemented The government has decided to implement a “No Vehicle Day” once every week. The number of vehicles in the Chief Minister’s and ministers’ convoys will be reduced by half, while the general public will also be encouraged to avoid using vehicles one day a week. Officials handling multiple departments will be allowed to use only one vehicle in a day. New EV Policy to be Introduced To promote electric mobility, the state will soon introduce a new EV Policy. Around 50 percent of newly purchased government vehicles will be electric, and EV charging infrastructure across the state will be expanded on priority. Focus on Public Transport and Energy Saving The government has also stressed increasing public bus services, encouraging government employees to use public transport, and limiting the use of air conditioners in government and private buildings. Foreign tours by government officials will also be restricted, while the “Visit My State” campaign will promote domestic tourism. Tourism and Local Products to Get Boost The state plans to boost destination weddings, religious tourism, rural tourism, wellness tourism, and eco-tourism. Campaigns like “Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdan” and “Made in State” will be launched to promote local products and spread awareness about energy conservation. Natural Farming and Clean Energy Promotion The government will also promote low-oil food habits, natural farming, and bio-input training for farmers. Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, rooftop solar systems, PNG connections, and biogas projects will be promoted in mission mode across the state.