Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Leads Energy Conservation Review Meeting
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a crucial review meeting on Monday, focusing on the implementation of measures related to petroleum products, energy conservation, and austerity initiatives. The meeting, attended by key government officials including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, resulted in significant decisions aimed at reducing energy consumption across various regions.
Market Closure Timings Announced for Multiple Provinces
During the session, it was unanimously decided to enforce early closures for commercial establishments in several areas. Specifically, bazaars, markets, and shopping malls in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir will be required to close by 8 PM. This decision was made in close consultation with the respective provincial governments to ensure coordinated efforts.
However, an exception has been granted for bazaars, markets, and shopping malls located in the divisional headquarters of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which will be permitted to remain open until 9 PM. Additionally, shops selling daily necessities, departmental stores, and all types of malls must also adhere to the 8 PM closure time.
Exemptions and Specific Regulations for Various Sectors
The meeting outlined specific regulations for different types of businesses. Bakeries, restaurants, tandoors, and other food and beverage shops are allowed to operate until 10 PM. In contrast, marriage halls, marquees, and other commercial venues hosting wedding ceremonies must close after 10 PM. Furthermore, a ban has been imposed on holding wedding ceremonies after 10 PM in private properties and homes, reinforcing the austerity measures.
Importantly, medical stores and pharmacies have been exempted from these restrictions, ensuring uninterrupted access to healthcare services. All these decisions are scheduled to take effect from April 7, providing a clear timeline for implementation.
Consultation Process and Digital Subsidy Transfer Progress
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to the Chief Ministers of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir for their unanimous support on these matters of national importance. He noted that the Sindh government is currently engaged in consultations with stakeholders and expressed hope that the Chief Minister of Sindh would soon join the decision after completing the process.
In a related development, it was reported during the briefing that the process of transferring subsidies for petroleum products through digital wallets is underway, with one hundred thousand transactions already completed. This move aims to streamline financial support and enhance efficiency.
Additional Measures and Future Implications
As part of the broader energy conservation strategy, the Prime Minister announced that intercity public transport in Gilgit city and Muzaffarabad city will be free for one month, with all expenses covered by the federal government. This initiative is designed to alleviate financial burdens on citizens while promoting public transport usage.
The meeting underscores the government's commitment to addressing energy challenges through collaborative and decisive actions. By implementing these measures, authorities aim to reduce overall energy consumption, support economic stability, and foster a culture of austerity across the nation.
