उत्तराखण्ड
Enthusiastic Administrative Chief Bikes to Office; ‘No-Vehicle Day’ to Be Observed Every Saturday at Information Directorate
, 16 May 2026 — Senior Uttarakhand administrative officer Banshidhar Tiwari, Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, Director General of Information and Vice-Chairperson of MDDA, set an example of administrative and environmental sensitivity on Saturday by cycling from his residence to the Information Directorate. Choosing not to use a luxury government vehicle, he sparked a positive discussion within administrative circles about departmental work culture and energy conservation.
According to officials, Tiwari rode his bicycle from his home on Sahasradhara Road to the Information Directorate on Ring Road. Observers say the move was more than a one-day stunt; it reflected personal commitment and accountability. He stated that change must begin with oneself and that small, sustained efforts can collectively bring significant environmental and administrative improvements.
Following his initiative, the Information Department has decided to observe every Saturday as a ‘No-Vehicle Day’. The measure aims to encourage departmental staff and officers to adopt alternative transport such as bicycles, public transit, or car-pooling, and to reduce dependence on government fuel. The departmental directive states that on these days vehicles will be used only for essential operations, meetings, and official communications.
The MDDA is also expanding a broader “Save Fuel Campaign.” MDDA leadership says the campaign goes beyond fuel savings to include prudent electricity use in offices, switching off non-essential equipment, and running awareness programs on environmental protection. Officials hope these steps will reduce institutional carbon emissions and foster a culture of prudent use of public resources.
Analysts say such personal examples by senior officials can prompt behavioral change within the bureaucracy. Given the challenges of traffic congestion, rising pollution and deteriorating lifestyles, this practical step by a senior officer may help translate policy messages into on-the-ground action. The wider impact of the initiative will become clear after regular monitoring and impact assessment at the departmental level.
