No free Petrol for Punjab ministers amid fuel crisis
2026-03-09 - 14:33
ISLAMABAD – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced sweeping emergency measures that will affect government operations, education, and public activities across the region. During high-level meeting in the provincial capital, Chief Minister ordered immediate suspension of official fuel for all provincial ministers until the crisis is resolved. In addition, petrol and diesel allowances for government officers’ vehicles have been slashed by 50percent with immediate effect. All protocol vehicles accompanying provincial ministers and senior officials have been banned. Only one security vehicle will now be allowed with ministers and top officers in unavoidable security situations. Maryam Nawaz led Punjab government decided to implement work-from-home arrangements in government departments. Only essential staff will report to offices, while the rest will work remotely. Officials clarified that the policy only restricts additional support staff movement and government work will continue without interruption through online meetings and teleconferences. All schools, colleges, and universities across Punjab will remain closed from March 10 to March 31 due to the crisis. However, examinations will proceed according to the existing schedule, and institutions have been instructed to conduct online classes during this period. The government imposed ban on official outdoor events, and the popular Horse and Cattle Show cultural festival has been postponed until further notice. Despite restrictions, public services will remain operational through digital platforms. Services under “E-Business” initiatives and the “Maryam Ki Dastak” program will continue to provide citizens with government facilities. To prevent misuse and hoarding, District Petroleum Monitoring Committees will be formed in every district. The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has been tasked with developing a track-and-trace system for petroleum products. The system will include representatives from district administration, police, PERRA, and other institutions to ensure transparency. Chief Minister has directed authorities to strictly monitor transport fares across Punjab. Anyone found charging excessive or illegal fares will face strict legal action. Authorities have also been instructed to closely monitor the demand and supply of food items to prevent shortages or artificial price hikes during the crisis. CM Maryam Nawaz appealed to citizens to avoid outdoor functions, refrain from late-night shopping, and not engage in unnecessary buying or hoarding of essential goods during the emergency. She also hailed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for taking bold and courageous decisions during one of the toughest crises. Pakistan tops region as most Expensive Petrol Market after massive hike