In view of the prevailing international situation and rising economic challenges, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government here Monday approved a comprehensive Fuel conservation and responsible governance initiative aimed at reducing fuel consumption and promoting austerity in official expenditures.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations, Shafi Jan in a statement here said the decision was taken during a meeting of the provincial cabinet on the directives of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.
He said the fuel conservation measures would initially remain in force for two months, after which their continuation would be reviewed based on the prevailing situation and policy analysis.
Under the new initiative, all government departments will conduct 100 percent of their meetings virtually (online) to reduce fuel usage and official travel.
The cabinet also approved a 25 percent reduction in fuel allowances for government vehicles. With this latest decision, the overall reduction in fuel allowances has reached 50 percent, as a 25 percent cut had already been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic precautionary measures.
However, police, rescue services and other law enforcement agencies will remain exempt from the fuel cuts due to the nature of their duties.
Shafi Jan further said the government has also decided to introduce a 50 percent work-from-home policy in government offices to minimize commuting and fuel consumption.
The cabinet also decided to significantly reduce the unnecessary use of VIP protocol vehicles and helicopters. Additionally, austerity measures have been introduced to curb official spending, including a ban on unnecessary ceremonies and official dinners.
To further conserve fuel, a proposal has been made to close educational institutions on Fridays, while promoting virtual classes as an alternative learning method.
The provincial government also announced strict monitoring of petrol pumps on a daily basis to prevent hoarding and ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products.
At the same time, authorities will ensure adequate diesel supply for farmers, particularly during the ongoing wheat harvesting season, to support the agricultural sector.