BDA cuts fuel consumption by 25%, fixes monthly vehicle usage at 1,500 km

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards conserving fuel and reducing government expenditure on petrol and diesel, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has decided to cut fuel consumption by its official vehicles.

The decision has been taken in accordance with directives issued by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to promote the efficient use of fuel across government departments and institutions.

As per a recent order issued by the BDA, the monthly vehicle usage limit for all entitled officers has been reduced to 1,500 kilometres from the earlier limit of 2,000 kilometres per month. The move is expected to reduce the BDA’s monthly fuel expenditure by approximately 25 per cent.

The official order stated that, in view of the government’s instructions on the rationalisation of expenditure on petrol and diesel and the optimum utilisation of government vehicles, the revised limit will come into effect immediately. The measure will remain in force temporarily until the prevailing fuel shortage situation improves or further orders are issued.

BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the authority is also encouraging virtual meetings, review sessions, training programmes and workshops to minimise fuel consumption. Officials have further been advised to use public transport whenever feasible.

The initiative follows the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s eight-point directive issued in May, aimed at reducing petrol and diesel consumption and promoting energy-efficient governance across Odisha.