The Rs. 24,000 crore oil pool deficit can be reduced substantially if the Centre displays political will for taking steps to conserve and utilise the products for the maximum number people.

The state governments should remove the monopoly of state transport authority and allow private operators to ply vehicles. Chakadas that can carry 12 persons, and small buses which accommodate 25 to 30 passengers should be encouraged.

Under the income-tax Act, half the expenses incurred on vehicles should be allowed as deduction from income for businessmen and professionals and depreciation should be allowed only on new vehicles up to 55% of the purchase price. Every employee is duty-bound to attend office and so the travelling allowance and free petrol quota should be discontinued as standard deduction of Rs.25000 is given from his income. The National Development Council consisting of all political parties had recommended in the year 1993 to discontinue leave travel concession given to employees, but this has not been done. The Centre, State governments and corporations owned by the government can save about Rs.100000 crore a year if LTC is discontinued.

VASANT J. DESAI
AHMEDABAD.

DATE :
TIMES OF INDIA.