ISLAMABAD: The government has taken several austerity measures with an aim to cut down current expenditures during the current financial year (2012-13).

The austerity measures have already been approved by the cabinet in continuation of the austerity measures in the current expenditures notified during the last fiscal year, official sources said.

The austerity measures were effective from July 1, according  to the notification of the Finance Ministry, which further added that copy of these directions have been forwarded to all the ministries and divisions for strict compliance.

It added that there would be ban on purchase of physical assets including all types of vehicles while this ban will also be applicable to development expenditure.

According to the notification, expenditure on traveling allowance, repair of transport and POL/CNG will be curtailed by 20 percent of allocated budget under these head.

It further said that only one daily newspaper will be allowed to the entitled officers.

According to the notification, officers will not be allowed to use Air-Conditioner before 11:00 am and below 26 degrees.

The austerity measures further included that Principal Accounting Officer will ensure rationalization of utility bills while the serving of official lunches or dinners should be restricted to bare minimum.

The Ministries and Division will not be authorized to re-appropriate funds from the above mentioned heads of expenditure, according to these measures. – SAMAA/AGENCIES