Islamabad, 17 March 2026(Kamran Raja): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a review meeting to assess the implementation of fuel conservation and austerity measures in light of the prevailing regional situation. During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed on the progress made in implementing the government’s austerity and energy-saving initiatives. Officials informed the meeting that the directives issued by the Prime Minister are being effectively implemented across relevant institutions. The briefing highlighted that the Intelligence Bureau will monitor the implementation of all measures and present oversight reports to ensure compliance. It was also informed that Pakistan currently has adequate reserves of petroleum products to meet national requirements. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Minister for Petroleum to further accelerate efforts to improve the supply chain of Pakistan’s petroleum imports. He emphasized that all relevant institutions must remain prepared to take emergency measures until the regional situation improves.
The meeting was also informed that the overall situation is being closely monitored and detailed records of petroleum products are being maintained to ensure the immediate detection of any irregularities. Officials further briefed that all cabinet members have voluntarily chosen not to draw their salaries, while the reduction in fuel usage by government departments has already started showing positive results. These savings measures are expected to help provide relief to the public during the current situation. The meeting was also informed that sufficient stocks of medicines are available in the country to meet national needs.
Regarding the work-from-home policy, officials stated that the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has already made special connectivity arrangements to facilitate government e-office systems and ensure smooth remote working. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant Tariq Bajwa, Governor State Bank Jameel Ahmad, and other senior government officials.