Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has announced that the government is considering early market closures across Pakistan to reduce electricity consumption and control rising economic pressures.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, the minister said Pakistan relies heavily on imported fuel for electricity generation, making energy conservation a national priority amid the ongoing global oil crisis.
He pointed out that markets in Pakistan often remain open from afternoon until late night, significantly increasing electricity usage generated through expensive imported fuel such as furnace oil.
Iqbal said provincial governments have been directed to consult traders and submit a plan within a week to implement early market closures. The move aims to reduce unnecessary energy consumption and save billions in import costs.
⚡ Energy Saving & Public Responsibility
The minister emphasized the need for behavioral change, urging citizens to conserve fuel and electricity. He encouraged practices like carpooling and avoiding unnecessary energy use to reduce the national import bill.
Iqbal noted that in countries like Japan, United States, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkiye, markets close much earlier, contributing to efficient energy use.
Price Monitoring & Transport Fares
The minister also addressed rising transport fares following the recent fuel price hike. He directed provincial authorities to regulate fares and prevent overcharging by transporters.
During a meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee, Iqbal ordered strict enforcement of revised fare notifications within 24 hours and called for random inspections to ensure compliance.
He warned that unchecked fare increases could trigger inflation in essential goods due to higher transport costs.
Measures to Control Inflation
Authorities have been instructed to closely monitor prices of essential commodities such as wheat, rice, vegetables, and pulses. Weekly price tracking will be carried out with support from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
Iqbal also raised concerns over possible urea smuggling due to price differences and directed authorities to take immediate action to ensure availability for farmers.
Summary Points
- Govt plans early market closures nationwide
- Aim to reduce electricity and fuel consumption
- Provinces asked to consult traders
- Transport fares to be strictly regulated
- Weekly monitoring of essential commodity prices
