Austerity regime intact for public, withdrawn for officials in Punjab

LAHORE: In line with thefederal government notification, the Punjab government too on Monday notified termination of “fuel conservation. additional austerity measures” for civil servants and offices, while keeping the restrictions intact meant for the public.

The Punjab government’s Implementation. Coordination Wing of S&GAD notified termination of fuel conservation and additional austerity measures without mentioning the details that were notified from time to time since March 10, June 3 and 11, respectively.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had on March 9 announced implementation of extraordinary measures to address the unprecedented economic challenges arising from the conflict in the region. She had announced that the government fuel for provincial ministers would remain suspended until the petroleum crisis was resolved.

She had also ordered a 50pc cut in petrol and diesel allowances for official vehicles used by government officers. A ban was also imposed on protocol vehicles accompanying provincial ministers and senior officials.

The Punjab government has kept the condition of closure of shops, markets, shopping malls. bazaars as well as departmental and general stores at 9pm during all week days including Saturdays and Sundays. It also kept the condition of closing marriage halls, marquees. all other commercial places, where festive events are held, by 10pm.

The restaurants, cafes, cinemas, eateries. food outlets as well as standalone fruit and vegetable shops, grocery and kiryana stores will continue to be closed by 11pm. However, takeaway and home delivery will remain exempt.

The establishments that will remain exempt from the notified closing hours are: pharmacies, medical stores, medical supply stores, medical laboratories. hospitals. Similarly, standalone bakeries, tandoors, milk. dairy, fuel pumps, CNG stations, vehicle charging stations as well as gyms, sports facilities and sports/padel courts, IT companies and call centres are exempt.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2026