The Haryana government has introduced new measures to reduce fuel consumption by limiting the use of official vehicles across state departments. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has instructed all government offices to use official vehicles only when required and adopt practical steps that help save fuel and protect the environment.
The decision follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to promote fuel conservation and encourage environmentally responsible practices. The state government now wants every department to contribute by reducing unnecessary travel and improving the use of public resources.
Ranbir Gangwa Implements the New Guidelines
Soon after the Chief Minister’s directions, Public Health Engineering and Public Works Minister Ranbir Gangwa began implementing the policy in the departments under his charge.
As part of the initiative, Gangwa decided to remove the pilot vehicle from his own convoy. He said government officials should first adopt the changes themselves before expecting others to follow.
Review Leads to Withdrawal of 17 Official Vehicles
The minister conducted a departmental review to assess the need for government vehicles. Based on the findings, he ordered the immediate withdrawal of 17 vehicles.
Nine vehicles were taken back from the Public Health Engineering Department, while eight vehicles were withdrawn from the Buildings and Roads branch of the Public Works Department. The move is expected to reduce unnecessary fuel expenses and improve operational efficiency.
Departments Told to Avoid Unnecessary Travel
Along with reducing the number of official vehicles, the government has asked departments to minimise avoidable travel.
Officials have been encouraged to hold virtual meetings whenever possible instead of travelling for routine discussions. The minister said digital communication can save both time and fuel while making government work more efficient.
Vehicle Pooling Encouraged
The new guidelines also recommend vehicle pooling for official work. Departments have been asked to share vehicles whenever practical instead of using separate vehicles for similar assignments.
According to Gangwa, this simple change can significantly reduce fuel consumption without affecting government operations.
Officials to Track Fuel Expenses
The minister has directed senior officers to regularly examine vehicle log books and fuel expenditure records.
He said continuous monitoring will help departments identify unnecessary vehicle usage and ensure that official vehicles are used only for genuine government work.
Haryana Backs Sustainable Governance
The latest decision highlights Haryana’s focus on responsible governance and efficient resource management. By reducing unnecessary vehicle use, promoting virtual meetings, and encouraging vehicle pooling, the state government hopes to lower fuel consumption while supporting environmental protection.
The initiative also reflects the government’s effort to align administrative practices with the Centre’s broader vision of fuel conservation and sustainable development.