Pakistan Implements Stringent Austerity Measures and 4-Day Work Week Amid Energy Crisis

During his televised address on Monday night, the Prime Minister highlighted that with international oil prices surging past $100 per barrel, drastic steps are necessary to manage the country's fuel reserves. As part of this emergency plan, all government offices will now operate only four days a week (Monday to Thursday), while schools and colleges are ordered to remain closed for the next two weeks. Furthermore, 50% of the workforce in both public and private sectors has been mandated to work from home, except for essential and industrial services.

To further curb state spending, the Prime Minister announced significant pay cuts and financial restrictions. Federal ministers and advisors will forgo their salaries for the next two months, and all Members of Parliament will face a 25% reduction in their pay. High-ranking officials from Grade 20 and above will also see a portion of their earnings deducted.

In terms of logistics, fuel quotas for official vehicles have been slashed by 50%, and 60% of the government fleet will remain off the roads for the next two months. Additionally, a complete ban has been imposed on foreign travel for government officials, and all state-funded banquets, including Iftar dinners and receptions, have been prohibited. While condemning the military escalations in the Gulf, Sharif assured the nation that current petroleum stocks are sufficient but emphasized that these "tough decisions" are vital for Pakistan's long-term stability.