Pakistan on Thursday announced a package of austerity measures for the second time this year to conserve fuel amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The measures, approved by the cabinet, will remain in effect for three months.

ALSO READ: 'No Need For Agreement If Makkah Is Attacked...': Pak Defence Minister Takes U-Turn On Mecca Pact Amid Global Backlash

Pakistan Govt Increases Fuel Prices

Earlier this week, the Pakistani government raised the price of petrol by PkR 4.10 per litre to PkR 384.34, and high-speed diesel by PkR 6.41 per litre to PkR 415.83.

The hike was announced alongside official warnings over potential disruptions to oil supplies due to the deteriorating security situation around the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Global crude prices were also pushed up by attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, including a strike on Riyadh's East-West pipeline.

Breakdown Of Austerity Measures

To reduce the impact of rising petroleum prices, the government has introduced several restrictions, including:

  • Cuts to fuel for official vehicles, along with a ban on vehicle purchases by the state, foreign visits by officials, and official dinners (except those for foreign visitors and delegations).
  • A ban on government purchase of all durable goods, except IT equipment, and a shift to teleconferencing for official meetings.
  • Mandatory closing times set at 9:00 PM for markets, 10:00 PM for wedding halls, and 11:00 PM for restaurants. Pharmacies and medical laboratories are exempt from these restrictions.

ALSO READ: 5 Facts About Pakistani Warship PNS Hunain Which Collided With Indian Navy Ship Sparking Diplomatic Row

While these restrictions are currently confined to Islamabad, federal officials are encouraging regional and provincial administrations to adopt matching policies. Energy Minister Awais Leghari and Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik stated that high international oil prices were testing the government's ability to absorb economic shocks.

Meanwhile, the right-wing Jamaat-i-Islami party has threatened nationwide demonstrations next week if fuel prices are not reduced.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

You May Also Like To Watch