Responding to PM Modi's call, Tripura CM downsizes carcade

The carcade of Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has been reduced to four vehicles from present strength of seven (including his vehicle). 

The decision was taken after a high level discussion at the instance of the Chief Minister himself. 

The Chief Minister wanted to reduce the size of his security convoy to save the fuel in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to the citizens for wiser spending and minimum fuel burning.

The Chief Minister after returning from Guwahati on Wednesday at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport had said that he would discuss the matter with Director General of Police Anurag. 

It was after this discussion that decision to reduce the Chief Minister’s security escort was taken.

Speaking to the media at the airport Dr Saha had said he personally supported the idea of reducing the number of vehicles in the convoy. However, the final decision would to be taken by the professionals in the police wings so as to ensure that security considerations are not compromised.

“If there is no security-related problem, then we have no objection to reducing the number of vehicles, and it should be done as well. I always wanted to use fewer vehicles and security personnel, but the police officials were not allowing it,” the Chief Minister said. It may be mentioned here that the Chief Ministers and ministers of different states have already announced an expenditure cut in various matters, including security and foreign trips.

During his visit to Hyderabad last week, the Prime Minister appealed to the countrymen to reduce their dependence on fuel and opt for public transport, including Metro and carpooling, increased use of electric vehicles, reducing purchase of gold and also preferring domestic travels over foreign visits amid the aggravating West Asia crisis.

Sources said the Prime Minister has also asked for the inclusion of Electric Vehicles in his convoy, which goes in line with his appeal to switch from petrol and diesel to EVs to save India’s staggering fuel bills.