Punjab Governor trims security convoy on austerity drive, visits Ludhiana with 3 vehicles

Taking austerity measures to conserve fuel amid the ongoing global crisis, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria visited Ludhiana on Thursday with only three official vehicles in his convoy.

The Governor is scheduled to preside over ‘Samagam 4.0 – Leaders Conclave 2026: Fashion and Textiles’ at Park Plaza.

An official, requesting anonymity, said the move reflects the Governor’s continued efforts to promote fuel conservation.

“The Governor has been appealing to the public to save fuel. In Chandigarh too, he announced a ‘fuel-day off’ and himself travelled in a golf cart,” the official said.

“Generally, the Governor’s convoy comprises up to 10 vehicles, including Punjab Police pilot and escort vehicles, the Governor’s official car, close security escort, back-up vehicle, and at times an ambulance and additional police vehicles. However, we have been informed that only three vehicles, including the one carrying the Governor, will travel from Chandigarh,” the official added.

It may be mentioned that Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria recently launched the “No-Vehicle Wednesday” initiative to save fuel amid ongoing global tensions.

Leading by example, the Governor has opted for e-buses and golf carts instead of petrol or diesel vehicles. His appeal also prompted senior UT Administration officials to forgo official vehicles for a day, with several travelling by bicycles and golf carts.