By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in
AGARTALA | May 11, 2026
AGARTALA: In light of a deepening global energy crisis and rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha has issued an urgent appeal to the people of Tripura to practice extreme caution in fuel consumption. This regional call to action follows a national advisory from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who urged the country to adopt austerity measures to safeguard India’s foreign exchange reserves and energy security.
The Prime Minister’s warning comes as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have sent global crude oil prices surging, prompting the central government to activate strategic preparedness plans.
The Prime Minister’s Directive: “Save Fuel, Save Forex”
On Sunday, PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation regarding the escalating oil crisis. He emphasized that during periods of global uncertainty, every drop of fuel saved contributes to the nation’s economic strength.
Key National Recommendations:
- Return to WFM: The PM suggested that offices and companies revive the Work-From-Home (WFM) model where possible to reduce daily commuting.
- Online Meetings: Increasing the use of video conferencing to cut down on unnecessary travel.
- Austerity in Luxury: In a rare move, the PM also urged citizens to defer buying new gold for one year to help stabilize the national economy during this energy-driven inflation.
Chief Minister’s Message to Tripura
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiments, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha stressed that while the state government is monitoring fuel stocks closely, public cooperation is the only way to avoid severe rationing.
”Our Prime Minister has highlighted a looming global challenge. I urge the brothers and sisters of Tripura to avoid unnecessary vehicular movement and use fuel very judiciously. If we are disciplined today, we can prevent a crisis tomorrow. Let us prioritize public transport and carpooling as a collective responsibility toward our state and country,” Dr. Manik Saha stated.
State Preparedness and Monitoring
The Chief Minister assured that the state administration is in constant touch with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) to ensure that supply lines remain open.
Current Situation in Tripura:
- Buffer Stocks: While India currently holds a 60-day strategic reserve of crude oil, local distribution depends heavily on smooth rail movement through Assam.
- Vigilance: The CM has directed District Magistrates and the Transport Department to prevent any hoarding or artificial price hikes by fuel stations.
- Public Transport: The state is looking into increasing the frequency of electric buses and CNG-run public vehicles to provide alternatives to petrol and diesel-dependent private transport.
A Call for Public Participation
The state government has requested various trade bodies, transport unions, and citizen forums to spread awareness about fuel conservation. The message is clear: “Small savings at the individual level will lead to a large shield for the nation.”
The “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” events scheduled for today will also see leaders reiterating this message of national resilience and self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
