PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet has approved a set of fuel conservation measures to reduce government spending and address rising energy costs. Chief Minister Sohail Afridi chaired the meeting in which the decisions were taken.
The government will implement the policy for two months. Officials say the initiative will reduce fuel consumption in government departments without placing additional burden on the public.
Special Assistant for Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan said the cabinet approved the Fuel Conservation and Responsible Governance Initiative. The chief minister ordered the measures in response to the global situation and the ongoing energy crisis. The government will review the policy after two months and decide whether to extend it.
Government meetings to go online
The cabinet decided to shift all meetings in government departments to a fully virtual format. Officials expect the move to reduce fuel use linked to official travel and administrative activity.
The government will also introduce a 50 percent work-from-home policy in public offices. Authorities say the measure will further cut fuel consumption and operational costs.
Fuel allowances reduced
The cabinet approved a 25 percent reduction in fuel allowances for government vehicles. Officials said earlier reductions introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic already cut allowances significantly. With the latest decision, the total reduction will reach about 50 percent.
Police, rescue services and other law enforcement agencies will remain exempt because of the nature of their duties.
Limits on VIP protocol and helicopters
The government also decided to reduce the use of VIP protocol vehicles and helicopters. Officials said the state must limit privileges during difficult economic conditions.
The cabinet also approved austerity measures in government spending. Authorities will ban unnecessary official events and government dinners to promote fiscal discipline.
Proposal on Friday school closure
The cabinet discussed a proposal to close educational institutions on Fridays to reduce fuel consumption. Authorities suggested holding virtual classes on that day to maintain academic activities while saving energy.
Officials also ordered daily monitoring of petrol pumps across the province. Shafi Jan warned that authorities will take strict action against hoarding or attempts to manipulate fuel supply.
Fuel supply for farmers
The government said it will ensure diesel supply for farmers and wheat harvesting despite the conservation policy. Officials said agriculture must remain protected from fuel shortages to safeguard food production.
Shafi Jan said the policy aims to strengthen the economy while promoting responsible governance.
Chief minister’s remarks
Addressing the cabinet, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said the government has a duty to shield citizens from the energy crisis and rising petrol prices. He said authorities must first reduce privileges enjoyed by officials and state institutions.
Afridi added that cutting protocol and unnecessary spending would help provide relief to the public.
“In Pakistan, people are often asked to make sacrifices first. This attitude should change,” he said.
The chief minister also recalled that relief was provided to citizens and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic under the party’s founding chairman. He said the provincial government will oppose any decision that places additional burden on the public.
