Islamabad, March 10: The ongoing conflict between the United States and Israel with Iran has triggered a global oil crisis, significantly impacting Pakistan’s economy and daily life.
According to the leading daily Dawn, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced strict austerity measures in response to the looming challenges, stating that a “difficult decision” regarding fuel prices has become inevitable.
These measures are set to affect everyone in the country. Foreign trips for ministers and advisors have been halted, and ministers will not receive salaries for two months, while lawmakers will face a 25% salary cut.
Government vehicles will receive 50% less fuel for the next two months, with 60% of government vehicles expected to remain off the roads. All government departments will reduce their expenditures by 20%.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the international oil market is beyond Pakistan’s control, and rising global conditions are putting pressure on fuel prices. He urged citizens to remain patient during this crisis and cooperate with government measures.
Key steps announced by the government include halving the workforce in public and private offices, with some employees working from home to reduce fuel consumption. However, this rule will not apply to essential services such as banks, hospitals, agriculture, and industrial sectors.
In light of the energy crisis, all schools and colleges across the country will remain closed for two weeks. Higher education institutions have been instructed to conduct classes online during this period to ensure that academic activities are not completely disrupted.
Given the seriousness of the situation, the federal government has convened a special cabinet committee meeting to review fuel reserves and national preparedness. The meeting discussed oil availability, supply chains, and strategies to handle potential emergencies.
In addition to the federal government, several provinces in Pakistan, including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, have begun implementing their own measures related to energy conservation and administrative management. Meanwhile, the Sindh cabinet is set to hold a meeting to discuss the issue.
The government has indicated that if global conditions persist, further steps related to energy conservation and economic management may be necessary.