In response to the ongoing global energy crisis triggered by the conflict in the Middle East, the governments of Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) announced strict energy conservation measures, while Sindh moved to freeze transport fares to provide relief to the public.<\/p>\n
Both Balochistan and K-P governments set early market closing times to conserve energy, control electricity production costs, and provide relief to citizens affected by escalating global fuel prices.<\/p>\n
A notification issued by the Balochistan government directed all markets and shopping centres to close by 8:00pm, except for pharmacies, tandoors, bakeries, wedding halls, banquet halls, and hotels, which will close by 10:00pm.<\/p>\n
Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hamza Shafqaat ordered district administrations and law-enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance with the order, warning that violators would face legal action.<\/p>\n
The measures were decided in a meeting of the National Steering Committee on Fuel Subsidy held on Saturday, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. “These measures are aimed at safeguarding lower-income segments of the population from the burden of high fuel prices,” the order stated.<\/p>\n
Similarly, K-P authorities have mandated that markets in divisional headquarters close by 9:00pm and in other districts by 8:00pm. Wedding halls, marquees, and similar venues, as well as restaurants, cafes, and eateries, must close by 10:00pm, although home delivery and takeaway services may continue.<\/p>\n
The province exempts essential services such as agriculture and construction activities, laboratories, emergency health services, petrol pumps for fuel dispensing, and tandoors preparing food for immediate consumption.<\/p>\n
It has also restricted non-essential lighting in commercial buildings, event venues, and public offices, including decorative illumination, floodlights, billboards, and LED screens. Air-conditioning, escalators, and lifts in commercial premises must not operate beyond business hours.<\/p>\n
In Karachi, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced a public relief package to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices. Following consultations with transporters, fares for public transport and school vans have been frozen, with the government providing a targeted subsidy.<\/p>\n
“Sindh will contribute approximately Rs14 billion to support transporters, ensuring continued service while shielding passengers from rising costs,” Shah told a press conference. “These measures, effective immediately, are part of a coordinated national effort.”<\/p>\n
(WITH INPUTS FROM OUR PESHAWAR AND KARACHI CORRESPONDENTS)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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