New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has reduced her official convoy size by around 60 per cent, with the carcade now comprising only four vehicles, including two electric vehicles (EVs), as part of a series of fuel-saving measures amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Officials said both Gupta and Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu used EVs on Thursday while operating with reduced security convoys.
The measures follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to citizens to spend wisely and conserve fuel in view of the international situation.
In a post on X, Sandhu said he had once again experienced "the pulse of the city" through the Delhi Metro, describing it as an efficient and accessible mode of transport connecting millions every day.
"In my recent travels, I have found it to be the most efficient way to navigate our city while contributing to a sustainable environment," he said.
The lieutenant governor also urged people to adopt public transport, carpooling and electric vehicles wherever possible, saying such collective efforts could strengthen energy security and help build a greener and cleaner Delhi for future generations.
Earlier today, the chief minister travelled to the 14th convocation ceremony of Dr B R Ambedkar University with minimal security arrangements and in an electric vehicle, according to a statement.
Gupta said her convoy would now largely be restricted to four vehicles, out of which two will be EVs.
Responding to criticism from the Opposition over political convoys, the chief minister said opposition parties had earlier demanded that the government implement such measures on its own first.
"We have done exactly that today. But will opposition leaders now have the courage to step out on the roads after giving up their attachment to luxury?" she asked.
Announcing the steps earlier in the day, Gupta said all Delhi government offices would follow work from home (WFH) two days a week, while private establishments would also be requested to adopt the practice.
She said all ministers, officers and she herself would commute by Metro every Monday. Citizens would also be encouraged to observe a voluntary 'no-vehicle day' once every week.
The chief minister further announced that all official foreign visits by Delhi ministers would remain cancelled for one year and that the government would not organise any major events for the next three months.
Gupta said the petrol and diesel quotas allotted to Delhi government officers had also been reduced by 20 per cent.
Delhi cabinet ministers and BJP MLAs have started using the metro, bus and e-rickshaw from Tuesday after PM Modi's appeal.
