Bhubaneswar, 13 May (H.S.): Odisha Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena on Wednesday urged citizens to reduce fuel consumption and adopt electric vehicles (EVs) in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal promoting energy conservation and responsible transportation practices.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s message on sustainable mobility and fuel conservation, Jena appealed to people to adopt eco-friendly travel habits and minimise unnecessary dependence on conventional fuel-powered vehicles.

The minister said PM Modi had encouraged the public to increase the use of EVs, avoid unnecessary travel and reduce the use of vehicles for single-person commuting. He also praised the Prime Minister’s symbolic decision to reduce the number of vehicles in his motorcade, calling it an example of responsible governance and commitment to fuel conservation.

Highlighting the Centre’s efforts to promote electric mobility, Jena stated that subsidies for electric vehicles have been extended till 2028 to encourage wider adoption of clean transportation systems. He urged citizens to actively support the transition towards sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility solutions.

The minister also appealed to people to make greater use of public transport services such as the ‘Ama Bus’ instead of relying on private vehicles for short-distance or individual travel.

In addition, Jena stressed the importance of car pooling and scooty pooling as effective measures to reduce fuel consumption, traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

Reinforcing the Prime Minister’s message through personal commitment, the minister said he himself would commute using government bus services.

He further stated that reducing fuel consumption and promoting sustainable transportation should become a collective responsibility of citizens in support of environmental protection and energy conservation efforts.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda