Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma Rides Tonga to Promote Fuel Conservation Amid Austerity Drive | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma on Saturday underscored the message of fuel conservation and austerity by undertaking a traditional tonga ride in Kashmir under the ongoing “Petrol Bachao Abhiyan”.

The Minister shared a video of the ride on Facebook, appealing to people to minimise the unnecessary use of motor vehicles and to adopt alternative, traditional means of transport in order to promote fuel conservation and environmental sustainability.

Sharma said that heritage transport systems such as tongas not only help reduce petrol consumption but also reflect Kashmir’s cultural legacy. He appealed to the public to actively participate in the campaign and contribute towards responsible use of resources.

The symbolic ride was also described by the Minister as a positive experience during the ongoing tourist season, during which he welcomed visitors to Jammu and Kashmir.

The initiative aligns with a wider call for austerity and efficient resource use following an appeal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to minimise wastage and promote optimum utilisation of fuel and public resources.

In Jammu and Kashmir, several administrative departments have already adopted measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption and curbing official expenditure. Senior officials, including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and police personnel have also reportedly scaled down vehicle usage as part of the campaign.

The Minister’s gesture attracted attention on social media, with users reacting to the message highlighting environmental awareness, sustainable travel practices and promotion of traditional transport in the Kashmir Valley.