Lockdown-like conditions in Pakistan(Lockdown- ) 

Islamabad: Amidst renewed tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in the Red Sea, Pakistan is once again facing lockdown  (Lockdown- )  -like conditions. To conserve fuel and curb non-essential expenditure, the Shehbaz government has introduced a new austerity package. Measures include a complete ban on the purchase of government vehicles, a 50% cut in fuel allocations for government vehicles, and a restriction limiting wedding functions to serving only a single dish.

Government issues notification

According to Samaa TV, the Cabinet Division of the Pakistan government issued a notification regarding this new package on Thursday, stating that the measures have come into effect immediately. Restrictions—including cuts in fuel consumption and a ban on foreign travel for federal officials—will remain in force for at least three months. However, it has been stipulated that in cases where foreign travel is mandatory, ministers, advisors, and officials must travel in economy class.

Shops to close at 9 PM
The Pakistan government has directed that only one dish be served at all wedding-related functions and events. The notification also sets early closing times for various commercial establishments. Shops, markets, shopping malls, departmental stores, and grocery stores must close by 9 PM.

Wedding halls, marquees, and other commercial venues hosting celebratory events are required to close by 10 PM, while restaurants, cafes, eateries, and food outlets must shut by 11 PM. Takeaway and home-delivery services have been exempted from these restrictions. Shop Closing Times
Several essential services have been exempted from time restrictions, including pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, medical labs, fuel and CNG stations, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, gyms, sports facilities, IT companies, and call centers.

Ban on Purchasing New Vehicles in Pakistan

The ban on purchasing new vehicles in Pakistan is part of major ‘austerity measures’ introduced to reduce government expenditure. The notification also prohibits the purchase of durable goods, though information technology-related purchases have been exempted. According to the notification issued from Islamabad, these restrictions will not apply to development projects.

The government has also ordered a 50% cut in fuel allocations for government vehicles for a period of three months. However, operational vehicles belonging to the army, civil armed forces, law enforcement agencies, essential services, and the Federal Board of Revenue have been exempted. These fuel restrictions will apply to the administrative and non-operational departments of these organizations.