Pakistan ends most austerity measures for government offices

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the rollback of several austerity measures that were introduced on March 9 in response to rising global fuel prices amid the Iran–US conflict. The government has now ended work-from-home arrangements, additional public holidays, fuel quota restrictions for officials, and the grounding of 60% of government vehicles. The Cabinet Division has issued a formal notification confirming these changes. However, commercial market timings introduced earlier will remain in effect, requiring shops, malls, and markets to close by 9 PM, while restaurants and cafés can operate until 11 PM, and delivery services remain exempt. Officials say the measures aim to restore normal government operations while balancing economic considerations. Can this easing boost administrative efficiency and public service delivery?