Islamabad — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to release salaries of government employees before Eid, while reaffirming his administration’s focus on economic relief and long-term stability. He issued the directive during a high-level meeting reviewing austerity measures and petroleum management amid regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict.
Relief measures and fuel availability prioritized
During the meeting, the prime minister emphasized that the government continues to explore additional steps to ease public hardship. Moreover, he assured participants that sufficient petroleum reserves remain available due to timely planning and monitoring.
Officials informed the meeting that authorities are actively overseeing fuel distribution to ensure sales at government-set prices. In addition, the government has integrated a feature into the Pak App, enabling consumers to report overpricing and supply disruptions. Consequently, authorities aim to maintain transparency and uninterrupted availability.
At the same time, the prime minister ordered petroleum companies to strictly comply with pricing regulations. He also stressed that economic stability remains a top priority as global uncertainties persist.
Audit enforcement and rail freight expansion planned
Furthermore, the prime minister directed a third-party audit of austerity measures to ensure proper implementation. Sources said the Intelligence Bureau will monitor compliance, particularly regarding fuel quotas and the use of official vehicles, and provide regular updates.
Meanwhile, he instructed Pakistan Railways to increase freight train operations to reduce fuel consumption. Authorities have started engaging chambers of commerce to shift cargo transport from roads to rail.
Additionally, officials have accelerated the manufacturing of freight wagons to support this transition. As a result, an increase in freight capacity is expected soon, helping mitigate the ongoing energy challenges.
