Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena urged citizens across Odisha to reduce their consumption of petrol, diesel, and gas and to adopt electric vehicles (EVs) and other sustainable modes of transport.
His appeal aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nationwide call for fuel conservation amid rising global energy concerns.
Addressing the media, Jena said the Prime Minister had advised citizens, especially in metro-connected cities, to prioritise public transport such as metro rail and to opt for carpooling when private vehicles are necessary. He encouraged EV users to maximise electric mobility and contribute to national energy savings.
Jena emphasised that citizens should exercise restraint in using conventional fuels and adopt measures like public transport, carpooling, and work-from-home arrangements wherever feasible. He said these steps would help reduce fuel consumption, strengthen the economy, and conserve foreign exchange reserves.
Highlighting Odisha’s commitment to electric mobility, the minister announced that the EV subsidy scheme has been extended until 2028 to encourage wider adoption of electric vehicles. He reaffirmed that the government will continue taking proactive steps to benefit citizens and promote sustainable transport.
“The government will continue to take all necessary steps for the benefit of the people. Citizens should increasingly adopt electric vehicles,” Jena said, adding that collective adherence to the Prime Minister’s appeal would strengthen energy conservation and economic stability.
