DGP, Chief Secretary and

IG Arrive at Office on Bicycles

Deputy Commissioner walks with staff

CTU runs special buses for employees

Chandigarh, 20 May (H.S.): The Chandigarh Administration observed “No Vehicle Day” on Wednesday, with

officers and employees using bicycles and public transport to reach their

workplaces instead of official vehicles.

Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria led the initiative by

travelling to his office in a public bus. Speaking on the occasion, Kataria

said he would also discuss implementing a similar initiative in Punjab, adding

that one day every week should be dedicated to reducing the use of private vehicles.

He further stated that the campaign would

gradually be extended to educational institutions as well. Kataria also

revealed that the number of vehicles in VIP convoys in Chandigarh would be

reduced in the coming days, and the security department had already been

informed about the plan.

Kataria said we instructed our entire staff not to use personal vehicles for

office work on Wednesdays. During times of national concern, every effort

should be made to save petrol and diesel. If we lead by example, it becomes easier

for others to follow.

Chandigarh Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad

cycled from his residence to the Secretariat, while even his security personnel

accompanied him on bicycles. Chandigarh DGP Sagarpreet

Hooda also reached the police headquarters on a bicycle.

Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav walked to his office along with

his staff members, while the Administrator’s ADC Randhir Kumar cycled to work.

Chandigarh IG Pushpendra Kumar also joined

the initiative by riding a bicycle to his office.

To ensure employees did not face

inconvenience, the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) arranged 17 special

buses during office hours and evening dispersal timings. The buses were made

available every 15 to 20 minutes from nearby stops across the city.

Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav said

the ongoing conflict in the Middle East had impacted global oil supply

concerns, although there was no shortage of petrol or diesel in Chandigarh. He

supported the administration’s decision and said the initiative should continue

every Wednesday.

Officials

described the campaign as a step towards fuel conservation, environmental

protection and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH