Sindh govt launches austerity drive to curtail economic impact of ongoing regional tensions

Karachi (Web Desk): The Sindh government has decided to enforce a strict austerity drive across the province in view of the country’s prevailing economic challenges after the rising oil prices linked to prevailing Middle East situation following Iran war.

Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced the cabinet’s decisions, outlining a series of measures aimed at significantly reducing government expenditures.

He stated that the fuel quota allocated to all government departments has been cut by 50 percent. In addition, 60 percent of the vehicles used by government departments will remain completely off the road for the next two months as part of the cost-saving measures.

Demonstrating solidarity with the austerity campaign, all provincial ministers in Sindh have also decided to forgo their salaries for the next three months.

Memon further said that educational institutions across the province will remain closed from March 16 to March 31.

However, examinations that have already been scheduled will continue to take place according to the previously announced timetable.

The provincial government has also adopted a work-from-home policy for government employees on Fridays, allowing staff to perform their official duties remotely instead of reporting to offices.

Moreover, a complete ban has been imposed on the purchase of new vehicles, foreign visits by government officials, and the procurement of additional office equipment.

The Sindh information minister said that these measures are intended to reduce the financial burden on the provincial exchequer and ensure that available resources are utilized more effectively for the welfare of the public.