Iran's energy crisis pushes country toward 'Car-Free Day'

Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Ali Abadi launched the "Car-Free Day" initiative within his ministry, aiming to reduce fuel consumption as Iran faces an escalating energy supply crisis.

According to the ISNA news agency, Abadi said staff would be supported and encouraged to come to work without using their personal cars.

Abadi added: "We aim to start with ourselves in conserving energy and managing consumption."

The initiative follows directives from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for government institutions to adopt a weekly car-free day, alongside developing public transportation and increasing production of hybrid vehicles, as part of broader policies to reduce fuel use.

Abadi had previously announced that the ministry is arranging measures to limit staff from using cars, confirming that the minister himself would observe a car-free day to encourage the campaign's spread nationwide.

Iran's energy system faces severe pressure after attacks on energy facilities since late September caused a daily loss of about 230 million cubic meters of gas production capacity, exacerbating already existing supply imbalances.

Meanwhile, rising electricity demand during summer has led to shortages and periodic outages affecting homes and businesses, while the government strives to manage consumption and increase electricity generation from solar power.

The energy minister described current conditions as "beyond normal," urging institutions to strengthen coordination and accountability in addressing the crisis.