CJP-led committee approves austerity and fuel-saving measures for courts

ISLAMABAD: The National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC), chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, has approved a series of austerity and fuel conservation measures for the judiciary. The meeting took place at the Supreme Court of Pakistan on March 10, 2026.

According to an official statement, the committee decided to reduce the ceiling for the use of petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) for judges. This move is aimed at cutting down on fuel expenses across the judicial system.

In addition to the reduction in POL usage, the NJPMC encouraged the increased use of video-link hearings. The committee noted that promoting remote hearings would help minimize travel requirements for judges and court staff, further contributing to fuel conservation and operational efficiency.

The committee also introduced a staff rotation policy. This measure is intended to optimize human resource deployment and ensure effective management within the courts.

These steps are part of broader efforts to implement austerity and promote responsible use of resources within the judiciary. The committee emphasized the importance of these measures in the current economic context, highlighting the need for all institutions to contribute to national conservation efforts.

The NJPMC comprises senior judges from across the country and is responsible for formulating policies to improve the functioning of the judicial system. The latest decisions reflect the judiciary's commitment to fiscal responsibility and environmental sustainability.