New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced that the Delhi government will not purchase any new petrol, diesel, CNG, or hybrid vehicles for the next six months. The decision has been taken in line with national efforts to promote fuel conservation.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, where the Chief Minister also introduced several measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption and encouraging the use of public transport.
Transport Allowance Increased by 10% for Government Employees
Along with the vehicle purchase ban, CM Rekha Gupta announced a 10% increase in transport allowance for government employees.
She stated that employees from Grade 1 to 8 will receive the revised allowance if they spend at least 25% of it on public transport such as the Delhi Metro.
The move is aimed at encouraging greater use of eco-friendly and mass transit systems across the capital.
“Metro Monday” Initiative for Government Staff
The Chief Minister also introduced a new initiative called “Metro Monday,” under which ministers, senior officials, and government employees will use the metro for office commute every Monday wherever possible.
Government office timings have also been revised from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM to support this initiative.
Weekly “No Vehicle Day” Proposed for Delhi Residents
CM Rekha Gupta further urged citizens of Delhi to adopt a weekly “No Vehicle Day” to help reduce traffic congestion and fuel usage.
She also directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to operate offices from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM to better manage traffic flow during peak hours.
Government Aligns with National Fuel Conservation Efforts
The announcement comes amid calls from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for citizens and governments to reduce fuel consumption due to ongoing global energy concerns.
Several states have already begun implementing similar measures, including reducing convoy vehicle usage by senior officials. Delhi’s latest policy marks a significant step toward promoting sustainable transport practices in the capital.
With a six-month ban on new government vehicle purchases, increased transport allowance, and initiatives like “Metro Monday,” the Delhi government is pushing for a major shift toward fuel efficiency and public transport usage. The measures are expected to reduce fuel consumption and ease traffic pressure in the national capital.
Read also: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Cuts Government Vehicle Use After PM Modi’s Appeal for Fuel Conservation
