A directive issued in May 2023 requiring all government vehicles to be turned off when not in use remains in effect, according to Civil Service Ministry permanent secretary Parmesh Chand.
In the circular sent to all permanent secretaries and department heads, Mr. Chand indicated that this measure is part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and operating costs within the civil service.
“Drivers of Government vehicles (with the exception of those used directly to transport the President) are to have their ignition and air conditioning switched off when not in use,” Mr. Chand stated in the circular.
“In other words, drivers are not to keep vehicle ignition and air conditioning running while waiting.”
Mr. Chand confirmed to this newspaper that the directive is still in place.
“This is all part of cost-cutting efforts and our commitment to reducing carbon emissions whenever possible,” he said.