Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday, 13 May announced that Lok Bhavan in Shimla will implement a series of fuel-conservation measures aligned with directives from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including a weekly 'No Vehicle Day' and a 50% reduction in official vehicle usage. The Governor cited the ongoing West Asia conflict as a potential trigger for a domestic fuel shortage, warning that India must act proactively to safeguard its energy reserves.

Key Measures Announced

Governor Gupta stated that vehicle usage at Lok Bhavan has already been halved, subject to security requirements. Once a week, no official vehicles will be deployed — residents and officials are expected to rely on public transport instead. Notably, helicopter travel within Himachal Pradesh has been suspended entirely, though inter-state helicopter use may continue where necessary.

Convoy sizes for politicians will also be reduced by half. The Governor further confirmed that these vehicular restrictions will extend to colleges and universities under his jurisdiction as Chancellor, and that he has written to all vice-chancellors to implement the same.

Letter to Chief Minister Sukhu

Gupta said he has formally written to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging him to direct all Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to adopt similar fuel-saving measures. He emphasised that elected representatives, as public servants, have a special responsibility to lead by example.

"If all of us come together to take such measures, a future disaster may be avoided," Gupta said.

The Broader Context: Fuel Security and West Asia Tensions

The Governor drew attention to India's vulnerability to global energy disruptions, pointing to Pakistan's soaring petrol and diesel prices as a cautionary example. "Pakistan has soaring petrol and diesel prices, though we have kept them under control so far," he said.

Gupta invoked past national crises — including the Covid-19 lockdown and demonetisation — to argue that Prime Minister Modi issues such conservation appeals only during genuine emergencies. He also urged citizens to avoid purchasing imported goods and to prioritise domestic tourism, particularly within Himachal Pradesh, as a means of conserving foreign exchange.

Awareness Drive in Shimla

The Governor announced that a dedicated public awareness programme will be organised in Shimla within the coming days to educate citizens about fuel-conservation steps. The initiative is expected to involve government departments, educational institutions, and civil society groups.

As India navigates heightened geopolitical uncertainty, the Himachal Pradesh Raj Bhavan's early adoption of these measures could set a precedent for other states to follow.