Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has assigned the Intelligence Bureau (IB) the crucial task of monitoring the implementation of the national austerity plan across all government institutions. A notification from the Cabinet Division confirms that the IB will conduct thorough audits and assessments of fuel conservation and other austerity initiatives. The bureau is required to submit weekly reports directly to the Prime Minister and the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Fuel Conservation and Additional Austerity Measures.

The Prime Minister announced the comprehensive austerity and savings plan in response to rising fuel costs, exacerbated by regional conflicts. He emphasized that the government has made difficult economic and administrative decisions to mitigate the impact of the energy crisis. Both federal and provincial governments are expected to embrace austerity and simplicity to reduce expenditures and conserve energy.

Key austerity measures include cutting government expenses, shortening the work week to four days, and restricting non-essential travel. Furthermore, federal cabinet members, advisors, and special assistants will forgo their salaries for two months, while parliamentarians will face a 25% salary reduction during the same period.

The IB’s mandate also extends to overseeing austerity measures within the National Assembly and Senate secretariats. Prompt action will be taken against any officials found in violation of the austerity and fuel conservation plan.

This directive comes after a review meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, where he reiterated that economic stability and public relief are top priorities. He assured that all necessary steps are being taken for immediate relief and long-term economic stability, expressing the government’s readiness to handle situations arising from global tensions.

The Prime Minister also instructed petroleum distribution companies to adhere to government-determined prices and ensure transparency. Consultations are ongoing for additional public relief measures, and timely government decisions have secured adequate petroleum product availability.

During the meeting, officials were briefed on oil reserves, import strategies, and public relief efforts. The continuous monitoring of petroleum product sales at fixed prices and ensuring uninterrupted supply were highlighted. A new feature on the Pak App will allow consumers to report fuel unavailability or overpricing, triggering immediate action.

Attendees praised the Prime Minister’s decision not to increase petroleum prices. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.