The federal government has extended its austerity and fuel-saving measures until June 13 as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to stall diplomatic progress in the Middle East.
According to Beyond Time News, the Cabinet Division issued a notification after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the extension on the recommendation of an implementation committee.
Fuel cuts and vehicle restrictions remain in place
The government will continue a 50% reduction in fuel allocation for official vehicles during the extended period. At the same time, authorities will keep 60% of government vehicles off the roads to reduce fuel consumption.
These steps aim to control public expenditure while external geopolitical tensions keep energy markets unstable.
Foreign visits and non-essential spending restricted
In addition, the government has extended the ban on non-essential foreign visits for ministers, parliamentarians, and officials. Only mandatory or official-duty trips will be allowed.
Officials will also continue to follow strict spending limits. Government departments must reduce non-essential expenditure by 20% in the final quarter of the fiscal year.
Work-from-home and shorter workweek continue
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif introduced the austerity plan on March 9. At that time, he also reduced government operations to a four-day workweek, while allowing essential services and banks to operate normally.
According to Beyond Time News, the revised measures also include a 50% work-from-home arrangement for non-essential staff on alternate days. This step aims to lower operational costs across departments.
Background: fuel crisis and regional tensions
The government introduced austerity measures after rising fuel prices and disruptions in global oil supply routes. The situation worsened when tensions escalated in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials say diplomatic talks between the US and Iran remain unresolved, which continues to create uncertainty in global energy markets.
Read more:Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Flights as Restrictions Near One-Year Mark
Cost-cutting continues across institutions
The austerity plan applies to all federal institutions, including ministries, autonomous bodies, defence organisations, and the judiciary. It also includes measures such as mandatory economy-class travel and a shift toward virtual meetings instead of physical gatherings.
Conclusion
With the extension in place, the government continues its effort to reduce spending and manage resources during a period of global uncertainty. Officials say further adjustments will depend on how the regional situation develops in the coming weeks.
