West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has instructed officials to reduce the number of vehicles in his convoy as a measure to conserve fuel. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to the public, Adhikari emphasized that his convoy should include only the essential number of vehicles. He communicated this directive to the Directorate of Security after taking his oath as the Member of the Legislative Assembly from Kolkata’s Bhabanipur.
Adhikari expressed his commitment to following Modi’s guidance, stating, “The Prime Minister has always shown us the right path. It is not mandatory for all people to follow, but those who believe that it should be done will follow his example.” His decision aligns with the Prime Minister’s call to respond to economic challenges posed by the global rise in crude oil prices due to the conflict in West Asia.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi advised citizens to adopt austerity measures to mitigate economic uncertainties. Among his suggestions were carpooling, using public transportation, working from home, reducing gold purchases, and limiting travel abroad. These recommendations aim to help India navigate the economic pressures from the volatile oil market.
As part of the response to these recommendations, state government officials have confirmed that all Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs and ministers will now use fewer vehicles. This move illustrates a collective effort within the party to adhere to the Prime Minister’s advice and contribute to the nationwide effort to conserve resources.
Prior to the new directive, Adhikari’s convoy typically consisted of eight to ten vehicles when navigating through the city. However, he arrived at the assembly with a reduced convoy of five vehicles, adhering to the newly established guidelines aimed at reducing fuel consumption and setting an example for others to follow.