Pakistan Reintroduces Fuel-Saving Measures; Shops to Close Early, Official Fuel Allowances Cut by 50%

Pakistan has reintroduced fuel conservation and austerity measures, including early closing hours for shops and markets, a 50% reduction in fuel allowances for official vehicles and a three-month ban on most government foreign travel.

The measures, announced by the federal government on Sept. 17, come amid rising global fuel prices linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Under the restrictions, shops, markets, shopping malls and grocery stores in Islamabad must close by 9 p.m., while wedding halls and other event venues must close by 10 p.m.

Restaurants, cafés and food outlets must close by 11 p.m., although takeaway and home delivery services are exempt.

The government has also retained exemptions for essential services and certain businesses, including pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, bakeries and dairy shops.

The closing hours were originally notified in June and have been retained under the latest measures. Provincial and regional governments have been asked to consider adopting similar restrictions.

Meanwhile, fuel allowances for official government vehicles will be reduced by 50% for three months, with exemptions for operational vehicles used by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and essential services.

The government has also imposed a ban on purchasing new official vehicles and most durable goods, except for information technology-related procurement and development projects.

Official foreign travel has been prohibited for three months, subject to limited exceptions. Ministers and other government officials undertaking unavoidable foreign visits must travel in economy class.

Additional measures include a 5% reduction in non-employee-related government expenditure, restrictions on official dinners and government-funded conferences, and a requirement to serve only a single dish at wedding functions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed government institutions to ensure the immediate implementation of the austerity measures and reduce unnecessary expenditure as Pakistan seeks to conserve fuel and manage the impact of rising international oil prices. (Newswire)

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