Watch | Union Minister Nitin Gadkari takes bus ride supporting PM Modi’s fuel conservation appeal

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Pic/ X

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India Nitin Gadkari on Thursday took a bus ride in support of PM Modi's fuel conservation appeal.

While speaking to reporters during his journey, he said that he has been working on alternative fuels since 2004, including ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, LNG, and green hydrogen, aiming to reduce dependence on conventional energy sources.

Launch of electric and green mobility vehicles

He noted that India has already seen the launch of the country's first electric scooter, car, truck, and bus, and added that the focus is now shifting towards machinery and tractors.

Rs 2 lakh crore green economy vision

Gadkari said this emerging green energy ecosystem could generate a Rs 2 lakh crore economy and contribute to making India more self-reliant, while also helping in reducing pollution.

Appeal for fuel conservation amid global situation

Referring to the current global situation, he said there is a need to conserve petrol and diesel following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal for fuel saving.

Ministers adopts bus travel to set example

He added that he has also reduced his official arrangements and is now travelling by bus as part of efforts to promote fuel conservation.

CM Fadnavis takes bike ride to support PM's appeal

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis travelled from his official residence, Varsha, to Vidhan Bhavan on a Royal Enfield Classic 350 on Thursday following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal for austerity measures and reduced dependence on fuel-driven vehicles.

BJP leader Ashish Shelar was seen riding pillion during the journey.

The symbolic bike ride took place as 10 newly elected members of the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC), including six from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), took oath at Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai.

Fadnavis calls bike ride a symbolic gesture

Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the motorcycle ride was a symbolic gesture aimed at encouraging citizens and public representatives to support the Prime Minister's call for austerity and fuel conservation.

"I came on a motorcycle to support the Prime Minister's decision, and I believe when leaders take such steps, it helps influence people as well. We should all support the Prime Minister's decision," Fadnavis said.