Govt moves to curb fuel use amid potential supply disruptions

Officials briefed the meeting that sufficient petroleum reserves are currently available to meet national demand.

ISLAMABAD:  The government has urged the public to adopt fuel-saving measures, warning of potential disruptions in the availability of petroleum products in the coming days.

The appeal came during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review the rapidly evolving regional situation and assess the implementation of fuel conservation strategies.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Field Marshal Asim Munir and National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim.

Officials briefed the meeting that sufficient petroleum reserves are currently available to meet national demand, with further arrangements also underway. However, it was noted that instability in the Middle East could severely impact fuel supply chains in the near future.

The prime minister directed authorities to formulate a comprehensive strategy in coordination with provinces to tackle any emergency situation. He emphasized that adopting austerity and conservation policies would help provide relief to the public.

The meeting was also informed that implementation of the prime minister’s directives is being ensured, with monitoring underway by the Intelligence Bureau.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called on the elite to lead by example by embracing sacrifice and adopting a culture of conservation. He further instructed all relevant institutions to remain prepared for emergency measures until the situation stabilizes.

In its statement, the government advised citizens to minimize unnecessary travel, adopt carpooling, and limit fuel consumption to avoid potential shortages in the coming days.