The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has introduced strict fuel conservation measures across all government departments following rising concerns about a possible petroleum supply disruption due to the escalating Middle East crisis.
According to an official notification issued by the KP Finance Department, all offices operating under the department have been directed to adopt precautionary measures to ensure efficient use of petroleum products. The directive aims to prevent a potential fuel shortage and maintain the smooth functioning of government operations across the province.
Officials warned that the international situation could lead to disruptions in fuel supply at the local level, which may create a critical situation if proper steps are not taken in advance. Therefore, government departments have been instructed to strictly limit fuel consumption to essential activities only.
Under the new directives, the use of official vehicles will be restricted exclusively to official duties, emergency responses, and unavoidable field operations. Non-essential activities such as ceremonial visits, unnecessary inspections, and outstation travel have been discouraged to reduce fuel consumption.
The KP government has also advised departments to adopt vehicle pooling wherever possible. Multiple vehicles for the same official assignment should be avoided in order to ensure efficient fuel usage.
Additionally, all internal meetings, inter-departmental discussions, and coordination sessions should preferably be conducted through virtual platforms. This step is expected to significantly reduce unnecessary travel and fuel consumption.
Administrative offices have also been directed to closely monitor fuel allocations and maintain proper records of vehicle usage. Department heads have been instructed to inform staff about the importance of austerity and responsible use of government resources during the current situation.
Despite these conservation measures, the notification clarified that preparations related to the upcoming financial year and the ongoing budget cycle must continue without any disruption.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the finance and petroleum ministries to work with provincial governments to develop a nationwide strategy for petroleum conservation and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.
Earlier discussions regarding a national action plan that included work-from-home arrangements and distance learning were temporarily postponed following a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister.
The government’s proactive steps highlight the importance of responsible energy management and the need for precautionary measures during global crises that may impact Pakistan’s fuel supply.
