Nagpur: Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday called on public representatives and civic officials to transition to vehicles powered by alternative fuels. He emphasized the need to reduce dependence on conventional fuels such as petrol and diesel.
Gadkari's Push for Biofuels
Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur, Gadkari stated that he had advised the city's mayor and other leaders to adopt vehicles running on biofuels and other sustainable energy sources. He highlighted ongoing efforts to develop cleaner fuel alternatives from agricultural waste, particularly rice straw (parali).
Innovative Use of Rice Straw
According to the minister, rice straw is being utilized to produce bitumen for road construction, while work is also underway to generate aviation fuel from the same raw material. He also stressed the government's 'Waste to Wealth' project and its results in the form of natural gas and fuels.
Blending Alternative Fuels
Gadkari further noted that discussions are in progress to blend a portion of these alternative fuels into existing fuel supplies. He informed that this move will be part of broader efforts to promote cleaner energy and a more sustainable transportation sector.
Context of Global Crude Oil Prices
Gadkari's remarks come amid fluctuations in global crude oil prices and concerns over fuel supplies due to tensions in West Asia, which have renewed focus on alternative energy sources. The central government has been encouraging the use of domestically produced fuels, including biogas and other biofuels, as part of its push towards cleaner and diversified energy options.
