Pakistan’s federal government has extended austerity and fuel conservation measures until June 13 amidst the ongoing uncertainty in West Asia. The extension was approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the recommendations of the implementation committee, as reported by Geo News. The measures include a 50% cut in fuel supply for official vehicles and keeping 60% of these vehicles off the roads.
The austerity plan, announced by Shehbaz Sharif on March 9, applies to all federal government institutions, ministries, departments, state-owned enterprises, and more. The plan involves a four-day workweek for government offices, with exemptions for the banking sector and essential services. Additionally, a 20% reduction in non-essential expenditure is required for federal and provincial government departments.
Official foreign visits by ministers, parliamentarians, and government officials have been banned, except for essential trips. The measures also mandate up to 50% of government employees to work from home on alternate days, with exceptions for essential service workers. Furthermore, officials are required to travel in economy class and conduct virtual meetings to cut costs.
Following a ceasefire on April 8 between Iran, the US, and Israel after 40 days of conflict, tensions persist in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route. Subsequent negotiations between Iran and the US on April 11-12 failed to reach an agreement, prolonging the regional uncertainties.
