Daijiworld Media Network – Islamabad
Islamabad, Sep 18: Pakistan has introduced a series of fuel-conservation and austerity measures, including early closure of markets, reduced fuel allocations for government vehicles and restrictions on official foreign travel, as the Middle East conflict pushes up energy costs.
Under the new conservation framework, shops, markets and shopping malls will have to close by 9 pm, while restaurants, cafes and other food outlets can remain open until 11 pm. Provincial and regional governments will be responsible for enforcing the restrictions in their respective jurisdictions.
The measures come as Pakistan faces another increase in fuel prices amid disruptions to global energy supplies linked to the conflict involving Iran and restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Petrol prices have increased by PKR 6.88 to PKR 391.22 per litre, while high-speed diesel has risen by PKR 5.62 to PKR 421.45 per litre. The revised rates came into effect on September 17.
Under the conservation measures, marriage halls and marquees must close by 10 pm, while only one dish will be permitted at marriage functions. Takeaway and home-delivery services will be exempt from the restrictions.
Essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, medical laboratories, standalone bakeries and tandoors, dairy shops, fuel and CNG stations and electric vehicle charging stations will remain exempt. Gyms, sports facilities, IT companies and call centres are also among the establishments exempted from the closing restrictions.
The government has also announced measures to reduce its own fuel consumption and expenditure. Fuel allocations for official vehicles will be cut by 50 per cent for three months, although operational vehicles used by the armed forces, law-enforcement agencies and essential services will be exempt.
The government has further restricted the purchase of vehicles and durable goods, while non-essential recurring expenditure will be reduced by 5 per cent during the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Foreign travel by federal officials has also been restricted for three months, with limited exceptions. Where overseas representation is essential, Pakistan’s ambassadors or high commissioners will be expected to represent the country where possible. Officials undertaking unavoidable foreign trips will have to travel in economy class.
The renewed conservation drive comes as Pakistan seeks to limit the impact of rising global energy prices. Separately, the government has rolled out a nationwide scheme providing Rs 100 per litre in fuel relief for motorcycles, rickshaws and cars with engine capacities of up to 800cc, effective from September 17.