Pakistan Fuel Crisis: 50% Fuel Cut for Govt Vehicles, Markets To Shut by 9 PM, ‘One-Dish’ Rule Returns
Pakistan has introduced a fresh set of austerity and fuel conservation measures as rising international petroleum prices and energy supply pressures add to the government’s economic burden. The measures include a 50% cut in fuel allocations for official vehicles, a ban on new government vehicle purchases and restrictions on official foreign travel.
Pakistan has introduced a fresh set of austerity and fuel conservation measures as rising international petroleum prices and energy supply pressures add to the government’s economic burden. The measures include a 50% cut in fuel allocations for official vehicles, a ban on new government vehicle purchases and restrictions on official foreign travel.
The measures, announced with immediate effect, are set to remain in force for three months in several areas, reports said. The government has also ordered a 5% reduction in non-employee-related expenditure for the 2026-27 financial year. Operational vehicles used by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and essential services are exempt from the fuel reduction.
Markets To Close By 9 PM
Under the new directives, shops, markets, shopping malls, bazaars and general retail stores will close by 9 PM. Marriage halls and other venues hosting festive events must close by 10 PM, while restaurants, cafes, eateries and food outlets will operate until 11 PM. Takeaway and home delivery services are exempt from the restaurant closing restriction. Fuel Price Shock Exposes Pakistan’s Transport Fare Crisis as Commuters Bear Brunt.
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, medical laboratories, bakeries, fuel stations, EV charging stations, gyms, sports facilities, IT companies and call centres are among the services exempt from the specified closing hours.
One-Dish Rule At Weddings
The government has also reinstated the single-dish policy, under which only one dish can be served at marriage-related functions and events. Official dinners have also been prohibited, except those hosted for visiting foreign delegations. Pakistan: Goods Transport Suspension Triggers Edible, Fuel Shortage in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Foreign visits by government officials have been banned for three months, with limited exemptions. Where international travel is unavoidable, ministers and other senior officials have been directed to travel in economy class. The government has also banned the purchase of new vehicles and most durable goods, with IT-related procurement exempted.
The measures come amid higher international oil prices and renewed tensions in the Middle East. The government has directed authorities to conserve fuel and energy while reducing public expenditure.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 18, 2026 11:13 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
