Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared that no minister or official from the Delhi government will be permitted to travel abroad for the next year. This decision is part of a broader strategy aimed at conserving foreign exchange and fuel, effectively triggered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal in light of the prevailing national circumstances.

Measures to Reduce Fuel Consumption

During a press conference, Gupta introduced the “Mera Bharat Mera Yogdan” initiative, which will be active for the next 90 days. She outlined various measures aimed at reducing petrol and diesel consumption across the capital. Notably, government employees not engaged in essential services or public dealings will work remotely for two days each week.

Additionally, the Delhi administration will advise private companies to implement similar work-from-home routines to promote the initiative. Gupta detailed that the use of official vehicles has been curtailed, with a 20 per cent reduction in the petrol allocation for officials, decreasing the current limit from 200 litres.

Another significant policy introduced is “Metro Monday,” which mandates that ministers and officials rely on the Delhi Metro for their commuting needs each Monday. Furthermore, both the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) plan to alter office hours to lessen traffic congestion and enhance fuel efficiency, with government offices scheduled to operate from 10:30 am to 7 pm and MCD offices from 8:30 am to 5 pm.

Public Engagement and Transport Regulation Initiatives

Gupta called on Delhi residents to participate in a weekly “No Vehicle Day” to further support the fuel-saving measures. She indicated that the government will refrain from purchasing any new vehicles for the next six months, illustrating a commitment to austerity in resource utilisation.

In support of public transport, the chief minister announced a 10 per cent increase in the transport allowance for government employees and the deployment of 58 special buses across 29 government colonies to facilitate easier commuting. In addition, half of all government meetings will transition to an online format, with a similar appeal made to universities and courts to shift non-practical classes and hearings to virtual platforms whenever feasible.

The government will also establish a single-window help desk in the labour department aimed at assisting workers. Gupta has encouraged local traders to utilise trains for transporting goods as a way to conserve fuel resources.

Promotion of Local Products and Event Management Restrictions

As part of the strategic measures, the Delhi government intends to develop a special travel plan for the capital and will prioritise the procurement of India-made products. Dedicated “Made in India” sections will be established in shopping malls throughout Delhi to further promote local products.

Gupta stated that large public gatherings would be cancelled for a period of three months, emphasising the government’s focus on reducing unnecessary expenditures. Additionally, she noted that her own convoy had been condensed by 60 per cent following Prime Minister Modi’s recommendations, thus reducing it to four vehicles, two of which will be electric.

This comprehensive approach underlines the Delhi government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and environmental conservation in response to national guidelines and current economic challenges. The initiatives aim to foster a more sustainable future within the capital while aligning with governmental advisories on prudent resource management.

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