The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has approved a series of fuel conservation measures for two months in view of the evolving international situation and rising energy concerns.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the provincial cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, according to Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Information Shafiullah Jan.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Shafiullah Jan said the cabinet approved the implementation of fuel-saving measures for two months on the directives of the chief minister, adding that the duration could be extended after reviewing the situation.
Under the new policy, all meetings in government departments will be held entirely through virtual platforms to reduce fuel consumption. The cabinet also approved a 25 percent cut in fuel allowance for official vehicles, bringing the total reduction to 50 percent as a 25 percent cut has already been in place since the COVID-19 precautionary measures.
He said the fuel cuts would not apply to the police, rescue services and other law enforcement agencies. The cabinet also decided to introduce a 50 percent work-from-home policy for government offices.
The adviser said a proposal has been put forward to keep educational institutions closed on Fridays in order to reduce fuel usage, while virtual classes will be encouraged as an alternative.
The cabinet also decided to significantly reduce the unnecessary use of VIP protocol vehicles and helicopters, while imposing restrictions on non-essential official ceremonies and government dinners as part of austerity measures.
Shafiullah Jan said petrol pumps across the province would be monitored daily and strict action would be taken against hoarding. He added that the supply of diesel for farmers would be ensured to facilitate wheat harvesting.
Addressing the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said it is the responsibility of the government to shield people from the effects of the energy crisis and rising petrol prices.
“In difficult circumstances, rulers and state institutions should first reduce their own privileges,” he said, adding that cutting protocol and government expenses would help provide relief to the public.
Afridi also said that people are often asked to make sacrifices during times of crisis in Pakistan, and this approach must change. He vowed that the provincial government would oppose any decision that places an additional financial burden on the public.
