Balochistan ends fuel austerity measures

QUETTA: The Balochistan government has withdrawn fuel conservation measures and other austerity restrictions across the province with immediate effect, according to a formal notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department.

The notification, issued by S&GAD Secretary Syed Faisal Ahmed, said all austerity restrictions that had been in force since March 10 had been scrapped immediately. The provincial government said the decision was taken after reviewing the prevailing situation.

However, previously notified business operating hours will remain in force. Under the existing schedule, markets, bazaars and shopping malls must close by 9pm, while wedding halls and marquees can stay open until 10pm. Restaurants, cafes and other food outlets have been allowed to operate until 11pm, while fruit and vegetable shops, grocery stores and general stores may also remain open until 11pm.

The notification also maintains exemptions from working-hour restrictions for a number of essential and key sectors. These include pharmacies, hospitals, laboratories and clinics; bakeries, tandoors, milk shops and dairy outlets; petrol pumps, CNG stations and electric vehicle charging stations; gyms, sports facilities, sports courts and paddle courts; as well as IT companies and call centres.

While ending the fuel-related austerity measures, the Balochistan government said instructions for efficient energy use and compliance with business timings would continue to be enforced strictly.

The move is expected to ease pressure on businesses and the public, while the government continues to pursue energy conservation through limits on commercial operating hours.