Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced a 14-point austerity plan aimed at addressing economic challenges linked to regional conflicts. In a televised address following a meeting on austerity measures, the Prime Minister outlined several initiatives designed to reduce costs and conserve resources.
According to Radio Pakistan, the plan includes directives for 50 percent of staff in public and private sectors to work from home, excluding essential services. There will be four working days each week, with exceptions for banks, industries, and agriculture. A ban on iftar parties and dinners has been instituted, and meetings will be conducted via online platforms.
Schools will close for two weeks starting at the end of this week, while higher educational institutions transition to online classes. Fuel quotas for public sector institutions will be halved for two months, with exceptions for ambulances and public-use buses. Government office transport usage will see a 60 percent reduction in the same period.
The Prime Minister announced a 20 percent cut in government expenditures, excluding salaries, and imposed a ban on purchasing transport, air conditioners, and other items. Cabinet members will forgo their salaries for two months, while Members of Parliament will face a 25 percent salary deduction. Officers above grade 20 will have two days’ salary deducted, with the funds allocated to provide relief to the public.
Official foreign tours by federal cabinet members, provincial Chief Ministers, or Governors will be restricted unless deemed essential for national interest. Seminars and conferences will be held in government buildings instead of hotels.
The Prime Minister warned that strict action would be taken against those attempting to exploit the economic situation. He emphasized the impact of regional conflicts on Pakistan’s economy but reassured that efforts are underway to shield the public from additional burdens. Sharif also called for national unity and reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with regional allies.