Balochistan withdraws fuel austerity measures

Notification ends conservation steps; business hours regime remains in place

QUETTA:

The Balochistan government has decided to immediately withdraw the fuel conservation and additional austerity measures that were in force across the province.

A formal notification has been issued by Secretary Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) Syed Faisal Ahmed, announcing that all austerity restrictions enforced since March 10 stand withdrawn with immediate effect. However, the earlier notifications regarding business operating hours will continue to remain in force.

Under the revised timings, markets, bazaars, and shopping malls will close at 9 pm, while wedding halls and marquees will be allowed to remain open until 10 pm. Restaurants, cafes, and food outlets can operate until 11 pm, and fruit, vegetable, grocery, and general stores have also been permitted to stay open until 11 pm. The notification grants full exemption from working hour restrictions to several essential and important sectors, including pharmacies, hospitals, laboratories, and clinics; bakeries, tandoors, milk shops, and dairy outlets; petrol pumps, CNG stations, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations; gyms, sports facilities, sports courts, and paddle courts; as well as IT companies and call centers.

The Balochistan government stated that the decision to end the austerity measures was taken after a review of the prevailing situation. However, directives regarding the efficient use of energy and adherence to business timings will continue to be strictly implemented. The move is expected to provide relief to businesses and the general public while maintaining a balance with energy conservation objectives.