New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced that government employees in the national capital will work from home for two days every week as part of a larger fuel conservation and austerity drive initiated amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The move comes in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for reducing petroleum consumption following disruptions caused by the continuing US-Iran conflict.

“At the government level, two days every week will be work from home,” Rekha Gupta said while outlining the new measures.

She also stated that the private sector would be encouraged to adopt similar work-from-home arrangements, adding that the labour department would monitor implementation.

“Private sector offices will be advised to allow work from home. The labour department will oversee compliance,” she added.

Govt Encourages Public Transport and Reduced Vehicle Use

The Delhi government has also decided to minimise the use of official vehicles and promote greater use of public transport and carpooling among ministers, legislators and government officials.

Officials have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and prioritise online meetings wherever possible.

The Chief Minister urged residents to use Delhi Metro services and buses instead of private vehicles, saying the move would help conserve fuel while also reducing traffic congestion and pollution levels in the city.

Earlier, sources indicated that ministers had been encouraged to use public transport, share vehicles and suspend foreign travel as part of the austerity campaign.

Departments Directed to Prioritise Virtual Meetings

Several departments, including the Public Works Department (PWD), Delhi Jal Board and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, have already issued directives promoting fuel-saving practices.

The departments have instructed officials to conduct meetings virtually, encourage electric mobility and observe a weekly “No Car Day”.

The measures come amid growing concerns over global energy supplies after the conflict in West Asia disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors.

The ongoing crisis has raised fears of prolonged fuel supply disruptions and a wider energy challenge affecting several countries, including India.