NAGPUR: Nitin Gadkari has chosen to undertake his two-day tour of Pune, Satara and Solapur by bus, aligning with the Centre’s renewed emphasis on energy conservation amid rising global fuel concerns linked to tensions in West Asia.
The Union minister for road transport and highways will travel on May 14 and 15 to review infrastructure projects and inspect roads connecting the historic pilgrimage centres associated with Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram.
In a significant move aimed at promoting responsible fuel usage, Gadkari has directed Maharashtra authorities to substantially reduce the number of vehicles accompanying his official convoy. Senior administrative and police officials across the concerned districts were informed through official communication about the revised travel arrangements.
The minister stated that minimising fuel consumption had become an important national responsibility at a time when international developments were affecting energy supplies and prices. He observed that collective travel involving officials, security personnel and media representatives could help reduce unnecessary fuel expenditure while also lowering traffic congestion during VIP movement.
The decision comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to adopt practical fuel-saving measures in view of the evolving global energy situation. The Prime Minister had encouraged greater use of public transportation, cautious spending on non-essential imports and efforts to reduce avoidable consumption.
Political observers view Gadkari’s decision as a direct administrative response to the Centre’s broader austerity message. The move has also drawn attention for setting an example of simpler official travel at a time when governments worldwide are dealing with uncertainty in global oil markets.
Officials associated with the tour said the minister’s travel plan is expected to improve road movement for the public and reduce disruptions usually caused by large security convoys during high-profile visits.