Bihar observed a symbolic “No Vehicle Day” on Friday as political leaders, government officials, and security personnel adopted alternative modes of transport in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal for fuel conservation amid rising global energy concerns. The initiative was aimed at encouraging reduced consumption of petrol and diesel while promoting sustainable and cost-effective commuting practices across the state. 

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary participated in the campaign by walking from the Chief Minister’s residence to the Secretariat in Patna, accompanied by officials and security staff. The move followed the state government’s earlier decision to reduce the size of official convoys and encourage fuel-saving measures within government departments. Panchayati Raj Minister Deepak Prakash also joined the initiative by walking nearly one kilometre to his office as a symbolic gesture supporting conservation efforts. 

Several ministers and district-level officials adopted eco-friendly transportation during the day. Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari travelled in an electric e-rickshaw to deliver what he described as a message promoting fuel conservation during a period of global uncertainty. In districts such as Khagaria and Gaya, district magistrates, police officials, and security personnel were seen commuting by bicycle, with some officials also highlighting the health benefits associated with cycling. 

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The Bihar government has proposed additional measures to reduce fuel usage, including promoting work-from-home arrangements, increasing the use of video conferencing for official meetings, and encouraging weekly observance of “No Vehicle Day.” Chief Minister Choudhary also appealed to ministers and public representatives to avoid using unnecessary escort vehicles during public events and urged citizens to rely more on public transport systems such as buses, metro services, and auto-rickshaws. 

The fuel conservation campaign follows Prime Minister Modi’s recent warning that geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the ongoing US-Iran conflict could severely affect global energy supplies and economic stability. Since the appeal, several state governments and political leaders across India have announced austerity measures including smaller convoys, increased carpooling, use of electric vehicles, and fuel-saving campaigns. Similar initiatives have also emerged in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Varanasi in recent days. 

The developments in Bihar, however, also triggered political reactions. Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tej Pratap Yadav criticised both the Centre and the Bihar government over rising fuel prices and the continued use of large political convoys despite calls for austerity. Even so, the state’s “No Vehicle Day” has emerged as one of the most visible public responses so far to the national fuel conservation campaign, reflecting broader concerns over energy security, rising fuel costs, and environmental sustainability.

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