Govt Taking Proactive Steps to Sustain Economic Activity Amid Fuel Crisis: Punjab Finance Minister

By Dr Ansab Ali
Lahore, April 1, 2026: Punjab Minister for Finance Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has said that despite the ongoing regional conflict causing a surge in global fuel prices and supply disruptions, the Government of Pakistan is taking proactive measures to keep economic activity uninterrupted.
Speaking during an interactive session at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), the minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, every effort is being made to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply. The federal government is providing targeted weekly subsidies on petroleum products.
At the provincial level, fuel consumption in public sector institutions is being reduced by up to 50%, while non-development expenditures have been cut by 25%. Development spending may also be rationalized if the situation demands.
The minister highlighted key austerity measures introduced by the government:
Cabinet members will forgo salaries and official fuel for two months.
Official protocol and government-funded visits by provincial ministers have been suspended.
Salaries and allowances of Punjab Assembly members reduced by 25%.
Government employees in Grade 17 and above will contribute two days’ salary per month for the next two months.
Complete ban on purchase of government vehicles and non-essential office items.
Work-from-home policy being introduced with only essential staff attending offices physically.
A dedicated monitoring committee has been formed to oversee expenditures and identify further cost-saving opportunities for the next two months.
Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman urged the private sector and citizens to adopt responsible fuel consumption practices. He also highlighted progress in health, education, and social protection under CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, including the Ramzan Nigehban Programme that provided financial assistance to millions of deserving families, the Ration Card scheme for factory workers, and the Kissan Card for farmers.
Secretary Industries Muhammad Umar Masood assured that the government is committed to a pro-industry policy and will avoid any industrial shutdowns. He noted that fuel supply is being managed to ensure availability at least until May.
FPCCI Vice President Zaki Aijaz appreciated the government’s efforts and assured full support from the business community. Participants suggested public awareness campaigns, promotion of carpooling, electric mobility, and rationalizing business hours.
Both sides agreed that sustained coordination between the government and private sector is essential to navigate the current economic challenges effectively.