Nagpur : Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that reducing dependence on petrol and diesel is no longer a choice but a necessity, stressing that India must move decisively towards alternative fuels, reports Lokmat.
Speaking at an event in Nagpur, Gadkari took a firm stand and warned that strict emission standards similar to Euro-6 would be enforced if the transport sector fails to cut its reliance on conventional fuels. He said that as the transport minister, he is determined to push this transition and made it clear that continued dependence on petrol and diesel would invite tougher emission norms.
Gadkari said tractor manufacturers have already begun working on flexible engine technology and that tractors capable of running entirely on ethanol and compressed natural gas (CNG) have been developed. He pointed to this as an example of how alternative fuel solutions are becoming viable across segments.
The minister said the central government is encouraging the use of alternative fuels and biofuels through financial incentives. He explained that in the coming period, anyone seeking financing for construction equipment who opts for machinery powered by alternative fuels or biofuels would be eligible for a subsidy of up to 5%. The aim, he said, is to promote wider adoption of such technologies.
Gadkari also highlighted recent developments in hydrogen-based transport. He said three new trucks have been launched, of which two use a hydrogen blend along with diesel or petrol engines, while one runs entirely on hydrogen fuel cell technology.
He added that similar experiments are underway in construction and agricultural machinery as well.
Gadkari said India’s future is closely linked to alternative fuels and biofuels. He expressed confidence that this shift would help protect the environment, reduce fuel imports and build a more affordable and sustainable transport system for the country.
