ISLAMABAD: The federal government has introduced a fresh package of fuel conservation and austerity measures, including a 50% reduction in fuel for official vehicles, restrictions on foreign travel and bans on purchasing vehicles and durable goods.
According to a Cabinet Division notification dated September 17, the measures take effect immediately following recommendations from the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Fuel Conservation and Additional Austerity Measures.
The government will cut fuel allocations for official vehicles by 50% for three months. Operational vehicles of the armed forces, civil armed forces, law enforcement agencies, essential services and FBR remain exempt, although administrative and non-operational vehicles will face the restriction.
Government Imposes Spending and Travel Restrictions
The government also ordered a 5% reduction in the non-ERE budget for FY2026-27, with monthly deductions. Development projects remain exempt from several restrictions.
Moreover, authorities imposed a complete ban on purchasing vehicles and durable goods, except IT procurements, and prohibited foreign official visits for three months with specified exceptions.
For unavoidable foreign travel, ministers, advisers, ministers of state, special assistants, parliamentarians and government functionaries must use economy class.
Additionally, officials have been directed to prioritise teleconferencing and stop hosting official dinners except for visiting foreign delegations.
Markets to Retain Existing Closing Timings
The government also prohibited state-funded seminars, training sessions and conferences, except unavoidable events held at government facilities.
Furthermore, marriage-related functions will be restricted to a single dish.
Existing market timings will continue, with shops, markets, malls and bazaars closing at 9pm and marriage halls and marquees at 10pm. Pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, gyms, IT companies and several other essential businesses remain exempt.
Provincial and regional governments may also consider adopting similar measures.
Pakistan's govt has announced austerity measures due to worsening fuel crisis. pic.twitter.com/wLniegppIk
— Wajahat Kazmi (@KazmiWajahat) September 17, 2026
