Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued on Tuesday a stern warning against the hoarding of petroleum products, calling it an “unforgivable crime” and vowing strict legal action as regional tensions intensify.
An important review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to assess the implementation of petroleum product management, energy-saving, and austerity measures.
Officials briefed the premier on steps being taken to ensure economic stability in light of the evolving regional situation.
The prime minister stressed the need for a nationwide petrol-saving and thrift campaign.
He urged citizens to actively contribute, saying collective efforts are essential given the seriousness of the regional environment.
Shehbaz Sharif made it clear that hoarding petroleum products will not be tolerated.
He described it as a “heinous act” and warned that those involved would face strict legal action.
Early market closures implemented
The meeting was informed that markets and shopping malls across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Islamabad will close at 8 pm starting today.
These measures aim to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption.
Officials said consultations are ongoing with the Sindh government regarding the implementation of similar market closure timings.
The prime minister highlighted that a portion of Pakistan’s electricity generation depends on petroleum products.
He said the goal of early closures and other austerity measures is to save foreign exchange and ensure an uninterrupted power supply.
Subsidy measures and digital system
The meeting was briefed that data collection for individuals eligible for oil subsidies has begun through provincial governments.
After verification, subsidies are being distributed through a transparent digital system.
Officials also shared that subsidies for freight vehicles, buses, and trucks have been in place since April 4.
This initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of IT and the State Bank of Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, special assistants, the Governor State Bank, chief secretaries of all provinces, and other key stakeholders.
