Delhi Announces Sweeping Fuel Conservation and Austerity Measures Amid Global Energy Concerns

The announcement comes in the wake of Prime Minister Modi’s May 10 appeal urging citizens to reduce petrol and diesel usage, avoid non-essential foreign travel, limit gold purchases, and adopt broader conservation practices. The appeal follows global disruptions linked to a conflict that began on February 28, which has affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international oil transit route, raising concerns over a potential global energy crisis.

As part of the measures, the Delhi government has mandated work-from-home arrangements for two days a week in government offices, with private companies being advised to adopt similar policies wherever feasible. The Labour Department has been tasked with monitoring compliance within the private sector.

The government will also introduce staggered office timings across civic bodies, the Delhi administration, and central government offices to reduce congestion and conserve fuel. Ministers and officials will travel by metro on Mondays as part of an effort to promote public transport usage.

In a significant administrative decision, official foreign travel by ministers and government officials will be suspended for one year. Additionally, no major public events or conferences will be held for the next three months to reduce expenditure.

The administration has also appealed to citizens to observe a weekly “No Vehicle Day” and reduce private vehicle usage on weekends. Government departments, including the Public Works Department, the Delhi Water Board, and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, have issued directives prioritizing virtual meetings, promoting electric mobility, and observing a weekly “No Car Day.”

Further measures include a six-month suspension on the purchase of new petrol, diesel, compressed natural gas, and hybrid vehicles by the government. Transport allowances for employees may also be increased if used for metro rail or other public transport services.

To improve urban mobility, feeder bus services in 29 government residential colonies will be upgraded to strengthen last-mile connectivity for metro commuters. Air-conditioning temperatures in government offices will be regulated between 24°C and 26°C to reduce electricity consumption.

The campaign also seeks to promote domestic tourism through special initiatives encouraging visitors from across the country to explore Delhi. In parallel, the government plans to promote “Made in India” products by designating dedicated sections in malls and supermarkets and prioritizing Indian goods in public procurement.

A citizen pledge has been introduced urging residents to conserve fuel, use public transport, avoid unnecessary foreign travel, and reduce excessive consumption of edible oil.

Officials stated that the combined measures are aimed at strengthening energy security, reducing fiscal pressure, and promoting sustainable consumption practices across the capital.