Himachal HC judges to carpool, Registry staff to get work from home to save fuel

Taking a cue from austerity measures being adopted across the country, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has also decided to adopt carpooling for judges to ensure optimal use of fuel.

It will also allow up to two days of work from home for 50 per cent of the staff in each section of the Registry.

As per a circular issued by the Registrar General of the high court, the judges have unanimously resolved to encourage carpooling arrangements among themselves.

The circular noted that these decisions have been taken in view of a circular issued by the Ministry of Personnel and Training on May 12 and another by the Chief Justice of India on May 15.

At present, there are 12 judges, including the Chief Justice, in the Himachal High Court. They will now resort to carpooling for commuting between the court and home.

Another measure aimed at saving fuel and resources is to allow up to a maximum of two days of work from home for 50 per cent of the staff from each of the branches/sections of the Registry.

“The Registrar concerned shall ensure that a weekly roster is prepared accordingly before the commencement of the week,” the circular said. Staff permitted to work from home have been directed to remain available on the phone and be ready to attend office if required at any time.

However, the circular also stated that if a Registrar is of the opinion that the work-from-home arrangement is not effective, he may restrict or modify this arrangement for that particular branch or section.