Hyderabad, May 14 (Maxim News) : The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has announced a series of austerity and fuel saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to reduce petrol and diesel consumption amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.
The decisions were taken during a nearly four hour long Cabinet meeting held on Thursday.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Andhra Pradesh Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy said the Cabinet held detailed discussions on the economic impact of the West Asia conflict and the need for immediate cost cutting measures.
The Cabinet decided that ministers would avoid foreign tours for some time as part of the austerity drive.
It also resolved to observe one “No Vehicle Day” every week.
Under the new guidelines, ministers have been advised to use public transport, electric vehicles and bicycles wherever possible.
Cabinet Focuses On Cost Cutting Measures
The Cabinet also directed ministers and officials to minimise expenses during district tours.
It suggested that official meetings should be conducted virtually as much as possible to reduce fuel usage and operational costs.
The government further decided to allow work from home for employees whose physical presence in offices is not essential.
Minister Parthasarathy said the West Asia crisis was placing significant economic pressure on the country and all states were facing financial strain.
He appealed to citizens to act responsibly with a spirit of “My Country, My Responsibility”.
The Cabinet also discussed reducing electricity consumption in government offices.
As part of the new measures, air conditioner temperatures in government offices will be maintained between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius.
The government also instructed departments to cut unnecessary expenditure during official programmes and events.
Officials were advised to promote maximum use of solar energy in government operations.
The Cabinet further decided to reduce the number and usage of official vehicles by ministers and senior officials.
The decisions come amid rising global fuel prices and increasing concerns over energy security due to tensions in West Asia.(Maxim News)
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