Govt Ends Fuel Austerity Curbs, Keeps Market Timing Rules

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the withdrawal of several fuel conservation and additional austerity measures, easing restrictions that had been introduced earlier this year in response to pressure from rising international oil prices and regional uncertainty.

The decision marks a significant policy shift after the government moved to cut fuel consumption, reduce official expenditure and conserve energy following the March 9 measures. Officials said the latest approval repeals a number of restrictions linked to government operations, while keeping selected commercial timing rules in place.

According to the notification cited in the report, the government has lifted most energy-conservation restrictions that had affected official working patterns and fuel use. However, market and business closing hours introduced through earlier notifications will continue to apply across relevant areas.

Under the retained rules, shops, markets and shopping malls will close at 9:00pm, while marriage halls, marquees and event venues will be allowed to operate until 10:00pm. Restaurants, cafés and food outlets must close by 11:00pm, though takeaway and home delivery services remain exempt.

Officials said essential services would not be bound by the commercial closing schedule. Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, laboratories and medical stores will continue operating without timing restrictions, ensuring that public access to healthcare and emergency support is not disrupted.

The notification also exempts petrol pumps, CNG stations and electric vehicle charging facilities from closing-hour limits. IT companies, call centres, gyms and sports facilities have also been placed outside the timing restrictions, reflecting the government’s attempt to protect sectors that operate beyond conventional business hours.

The austerity measures were originally introduced when fuel markets were under heavy stress after the Iran-US conflict pushed up global energy concerns. Pakistan, which depends heavily on imported fuel, had responded by restricting energy use, tightening official fuel consumption and imposing early business closures to reduce pressure on the economy.

The latest relaxation follows a sharp reduction in petroleum prices announced by the federal government, which said lower international oil rates had created room to pass relief to the public. That development has already triggered fare-reduction orders and transport-sector responses in parts of the country.

For citizens and businesses, the change means some pressure on government and institutional functioning may ease, while commercial operators will still have to follow early closure rules. Retailers, event managers, restaurants and shopping centres are likely to watch enforcement closely, especially during weekends and high-traffic evening hours.

The next phase will depend on implementation by federal and provincial authorities. If fuel prices remain stable and energy conditions improve further, the government may face pressure from traders and business groups to review remaining market timing restrictions, but for now the policy keeps public relief and conservation discipline moving side by side.