Govt urges staff to carpool to work, curb official travel

Panaji: In response to the Prime Minister’s appeal for fuel conservation and responsible energy use, and amid evolving global conditions affecting international fuel supply chains, Goa govt has urged all its officials and employees to adopt measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption and ensuring efficient use of transport resources.Under secretary, administration, Shweta Harmalkar stated that officials and employees should prefer public transport for daily commuting wherever feasible and convenient. Govt has also encouraged employees to participate in carpooling arrangements with colleagues residing nearby and to plan official travel carefully. Departments have been advised to use virtual platforms for meetings and official interactions whenever possible.Harmalkar stressed the need for prudent and economical use of government vehicles and transport facilities. Heads of departments have been directed to circulate these instructions and encourage adherence in the larger public interest.Last week, state govt issued an office memorandum restricting official foreign visits by public servants with immediate effect. The finance department said the restrictions were imposed considering the global situation and the need to conserve foreign exchange reserves until further notice.