Pakistan declares emergency energy saving measures

March 10, 2026 (MLN): The Government of Pakistan has declared a series of temporary energy conservation and austerity measures aimed at managing the ongoing energy situation and ensuring efficient fuel distribution across the country.

Under the new directives, fuel allowances for all federal ministers have been suspended until further notice, while official allowances for officers and field staff have been reduced by 50%.

The government has also withdrawn official protocols for ministers and officers, limiting them to only one security vehicle strictly for essential security purposes.

As part of broader cost-cutting efforts, fuel allocated to government department vehicles will be reduced by 50% for the next two months, with 60% of departmental vehicles ordered to remain off the road during the same period.

Government departments have also been instructed to reduce expenditures by 20%, while the purchase of vehicles, air conditioners, and other office equipment has been banned.

In a move to cut administrative spending, official dinners and Iftar gatherings have been completely prohibited. Government seminars will now be held at official venues instead of hotels to minimize costs.

The Prime Minister also announced the suspension of foreign visits by federal and provincial ministers, advisers, special assistants, governors, and other government officials.

To support public relief initiatives, officers in Grade 20 and above will contribute two days’ salary as part of the government’s austerity drive.

The government has further introduced workplace restrictions across both public and private sectors. Offices will operate four days a week, while organizations will function with only 50% staff, except for essential services.

Most government offices will shift to work-from-home arrangements, and official meetings will be conducted virtually wherever possible.

In the education sector, all schools, colleges, and universities will remain closed from March 10 to March 31. However, institutions may continue online classes during this period, while scheduled examinations will proceed as planned.

Additionally, all government-organized outdoor events and functions have been cancelled, and private institutions have been advised to avoid unnecessary gatherings.

To prevent fuel hoarding and ensure smooth distribution, District Petroleum Monitoring Committees have been established across the country.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Information Technology Board has been tasked with developing a petroleum shipment tracking system to monitor supply and distribution more effectively.

The Prime Minister also warned hoarders and profiteers against illegal activities and directed provincial governments to take strict action against those involved in profiteering.

Emphasizing the importance of national unity during challenging times, the Prime Minister said the country requires collective effort and solidarity to successfully navigate the current situation.

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