In a bid to conserve fuel, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Wednesday that he has instructed officials to reduce the number of vehicles in his official convoy. This decision follows a recent national address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which highlighted the importance of resource conservation amid rising global crude oil prices, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Adhikari, who took his oath as the MLA from Kolkata’s Bhabanipur at the state legislative assembly, emphasized the influence of the Prime Minister’s directive in his decision. “The Prime Minister has always been a guide to us,” Adhikari remarked to the media. “While it is not obligatory for everyone to follow, those who believe in the necessity of such measures will certainly do so.” His directive is in line with Modi’s appeal to citizens to practice austerity by adopting measures such as carpooling, using public transport, working from home, reducing gold purchases, and limiting foreign travel to mitigate economic uncertainties.
According to state government officials, all Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members of the legislative assembly and ministers in West Bengal are expected to adopt similar measures by minimizing vehicle use. This move is part of a broader effort by the BJP to align with the Prime Minister’s call for efficiency and conservation.
Upon his arrival at the assembly, Adhikari’s convoy consisted of five vehicles, significantly fewer than the usual eight to ten cars that typically accompany the chief minister during city travels. This adjustment reflects a commitment to lead by example, promoting responsible use of resources at a governmental level.
