Turning off engines at red lights can save Rs 14,000 crore: Pradhan

The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Petroleum & Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan said that the draft norms on fuel efficiency for heavy duty vehicles will be released on April 1. The Minister made the announcement during his address at the Saksham 2017, month-long awareness drive on fuel conservation in the capital. 

He said that the BS IV fuel will be available across the country from April, and that the Ministry is already planning and working on bringing in BS VI fuel by 2020.

Speaking at the event, Pradhan urged everyone to follow fuel conservation steps and contribute to saving of energy and fuel wherever they can. He added there are more than 15 crore two wheelers and more than 3 crore three wheelers currently on roads in India. By turning off vehicle engine at red light stops of traffic signal, about 2 % of fuel can be saved which translates to Rs 14000 crore of saving for the country. 

Drawing a parallel to the PMUY which has an allocation of Rs 8000 crore to distribute LPG cylinders to 5 crore BPL families across the country, Pradhan highlighted the importance of energy/fuel conservation for saving costs that could be used for other developmental projects. He informed that over 1.60 crore LPG connections have been given under PMUY since its launch in May 2016.

Pradhan inaugurated the month-long awareness drive on fuel conservation called Saksham 2017 (Sanrakshan Kshamta Mahotsav), organised by PCRA and other Oil and Gas PSUs.  

Saksham 2017 is aimed to create awareness amongst masses towards judicious utilization and conservation of petroleum products along with use of energy efficient appliances and switching to cleaner fuels. 

The Minister released the Saksham - logo at the event. He also administered the oath of conservation to all the participants including school children who were present at the event. Digital certificates for showing commitment to fuel conservation were also launched by the Minister. 

The minister also awarded the National school winners of essay and painting competitions which included study tour for children to Japan, laptops & cash prizes. The awards are to encourage children for continuing their efforts and enhancing their knowledge on energy conservation. Pradhan also flagged off publicity vans to spread conservation awareness.