Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that he has repeatedly rejected proposals to increase fuel prices and is striving to provide further relief to low- and middle-income segments of society.
Chairing a review meeting on the impact of the Gulf crisis on petroleum products, the prime minister emphasized that economically vulnerable groups will not be left alone during difficult times. He stated that savings generated through austerity measures are being redirected toward public relief and that digital systems will be used to ensure these benefits reach ordinary citizens.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that the government has reduced expenditures and cut the development budget, while also ordering the immediate withdrawal of 60% of government vehicles as part of cost-cutting efforts. He said the process of national sacrifice has begun with reductions in government spending and added that timely decisions have ensured uninterrupted fuel supply despite global challenges.
The meeting was briefed on government measures for fuel conservation, future proposals, and current stock levels. Participants were informed that the registration of motorcycle and rickshaw owners will soon be completed, and coordination with provincial governments is underway to deliver potential relief measures.
An audit report by the Intelligence Bureau on the implementation of the prime minister’s austerity and simplicity campaign was also presented, confirming that these measures are being enforced. Officials stated that adequate fuel reserves are available to meet national needs, with further arrangements being made for the future.
