The federal government has made the formal decision to close markets, lodging facilities, dining restaurants, and cafés at 8:30 PM and wedding venues at 10:00 PM. The action is anticipated to save Rs. 62 billion every year.
At a news conference today, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif made the announcement. He also made several cost-cutting announcements since the nation’s economy remains fragile. All of these actions go into effect right away.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif gave the order to reduce power use in federal government offices by 30% and forgo any superfluous use of electricity at the federal cabinet meeting earlier today. Government offices are no longer permitted to purchase inefficient electrical equipment.
Beginning on July 1, 2023, the production of inefficient electric fans will be prohibited. A new tax will be levied starting on July 1 on the production of inefficient electric fans. Annual savings of Rs. 15 billion are anticipated.
On February 1st, 2023, all incandescent bulb production will cease. Incandescent bulb manufacturers will be subject to an extra duty starting on February 1. Savings of 22 billion rupees a year are anticipated.
Conical baffle installation in geysers has been mandated by the federal government and must be completed within a year. It will reportedly save 92 billion rupees. Additionally, to save Rs. 4 billion yearly, the federal government has mandated that substitute street lights be turned on at night.
A thorough awareness campaign has also been established by the federal government to encourage people to adopt austerity measures. PEMRA will see to it that during the previously allotted 10% of their advertising time, TV and radio networks air advertisements regarding this awareness campaign.
