The Punjab government has taken an important decision regarding the Friday holiday, announcing that government offices will remain partially open.
According to officials, only essential staff will be required to attend offices on Friday.
Although the government had earlier issued a notification declaring a complete holiday on Friday, the Economic Monitoring Committee recommended against fully closing offices.
Committee members warned that three consecutive holidays (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) would lead to increased public travel, resulting in higher fuel consumption.
Based on these concerns, the committee approved the proposal to keep offices partially open. As a result, government offices in Lahore will operate with limited staff, ensuring that only essential services continue on Friday.
Sweeping austerity measures
Moreover, the Punjab government has unveiled sweeping austerity measures, including salary cuts and spending restrictions, as it moves to manage resources amid economic challenges and regional instability.
, Punjab’s leadership has decided to implement strict austerity measures across government departments. The decision comes in light of the ongoing Iran-Iraq war and the prevailing economic situation.
The decisions were taken during the first meeting of the Austerity Committee, chaired by Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman in Lahore.
The meeting focused on ensuring cautious use of resources and improving financial discipline across the province.
Govt moves to reduce overall spending
Officials announced a significant reduction in provincial government expenditures, with a strong emphasis on controlling unnecessary spending.
Various departments also submitted suggestions aimed at improving financial discipline and ensuring efficient resource utilization.
As part of the austerity drive, the provincial cabinet has decided not to take salaries for two months. Additionally, officers above Grade 17 will face a two-day salary deduction, while members of the provincial assembly will see a 25% cut in their salaries and allowances for two months.
Vehicle purchases banned
The government has also decided that board members of government companies and institutions will not receive fees for two months.
A complete ban has been imposed on the purchase of vehicles in government departments, with any new purchase now requiring approval from the Finance Department.
To reduce electricity and fuel costs, the government has directed departments to limit office operations and call only essential staff. Officials have been instructed to reduce the use of air conditioners and lights, and to keep unnecessary rooms closed.
Online meetings
The Punjab government has decided to prioritize online meetings for official matters to save costs. At the same time, the private sector has also been urged to adopt similar austerity measures.
Departments have been instructed to submit weekly reports on the implementation of austerity measures. This monitoring mechanism aims to ensure accountability and effective execution of the cost-cutting strategy.
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