PM unveils austerity measures, orders four-day workweek amid Middle East war concerns

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced sweeping austerity and energy conservation measures, including a four-day workweek for government offices, as Pakistan braces for the potential economic impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Addressing the nation, the premier said government offices would operate only four days a week, with one additional weekly holiday introduced as part of fuel conservation efforts.

He added that 50% of government staff would work from home, while schools would remain closed for two weeks starting next week. However, banks will continue to operate as usual.

Sharif said a meeting was convened earlier in the day to review the situation, during which several austerity measures were discussed and approved.

Giving details, he said that for the next two months the fuel allowance of official vehicles would be cut by 50%, adding that ambulances would be exempt from the measure.

He further said that 60% of all government vehicles would remain off the roads for the next two months as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption.

The prime minister also announced that the federal cabinet would forgo its salary for the next two months, while the salaries of parliamentarians would be reduced by 50%.

He added that senior government officials in BS-20 and above, earning more than Rs300,000 per month, would contribute two days’ salary for public welfare.

Sharif said expenditures of government departments would be reduced by 20%, while a ban had been imposed on the purchase of vehicles, furniture and air conditioners for government departments.

He further announced a ban on foreign visits by ministers, advisers and government officials, except for those essential for national interests.

The premier said teleconferencing and online meetings would be preferred to reduce fuel consumption, adding that official dinners and iftar parties had also been banned under the austerity drive.

Sharif said the measures were aimed at ensuring prudent resource management and maintaining economic stability amid the evolving regional situation.