Islamabad, May 12: Amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, the federal government of Pakistan has decided to extend its cost-cutting and fuel-saving measures until June 13. This decision comes in light of the prevailing uncertainty in the region.
According to major media outlet Geo News, the Cabinet Division issued a notification following the approval of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. The decision was based on recommendations from the committee responsible for implementing these measures.
The notification states that the 50% reduction in fuel supply for government vehicles will continue as before. Additionally, the government has maintained its decision to keep 60% of government vehicles off the roads.
Shahbaz Sharif announced the cost-cutting plan during a televised address to the nation on March 9. This initiative applies to all federal government institutions, including ministries, departments, state-owned enterprises, autonomous bodies, parliament, defense organizations, and the judiciary. The announcement came shortly after a 20% increase in petrol and diesel prices.
Under this plan, a four-day work week has been implemented in government offices. However, the banking sector and essential services are exempt from this rule.
According to Geo News, federal and provincial government departments have been instructed to cut non-essential expenditures by 20% in the last quarter of the current financial year.
Travel abroad for ministers, lawmakers, and government officials has also been restricted, except for urgent trips. Additionally, 50% of government employees, excluding those in essential services, are required to work from home on a rotating basis. Furthermore, officials are mandated to travel in economy class and are encouraged to conduct virtual meetings instead of in-person gatherings to reduce expenses.
A ceasefire was established between Iran, the United States, and Israel on April 8, following 40 days of conflict that began with joint attacks on Iran by the U.S. and Israel on February 28.
After the ceasefire, the first round of talks between Iran and the U.S. took place on April 11-12, but no agreement was reached. Tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global energy supply.
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