UDAIPUR | May 18, 2026 In a refreshing departure from standard bureaucratic protocol, the District Magistrate and Collector of Gomati, Rinku Lather, turned heads on Monday morning by cycling to work instead of using his designated official vehicle.
Residents of Udaipur town, the administrative headquarters of Gomati district, were caught by surprise as they witnessed the top district official navigating the streets on a bicycle. The unusual and inspiring sight drew spontaneous applause and words of encouragement from onlookers along his route. Though local reporters spotted the bureaucrat, Lather continued pedaling without pausing for media interactions.
Sources within the DM’s office revealed that the initiative was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent national address on May 11. In his speech, the Prime Minister urged citizens to actively curb the consumption of petrol and diesel, and limit foreign air travel to support the country’s economic and resource conservation efforts.
By choosing a bicycle, Lather aims to establish a benchmark for junior administrative officers to emulate. His action follows similar austerity measures adopted by Tripura’s top leadership, including Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who recently downsized his official security convoy to minimize fuel waste. Officials believe this symbolic gesture will encourage a culture of sustainability and resource management across various government departments in the district.
