Pakistan’s committee on austerity measures Pakistan, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, has decided to extend the closing time for standalone grocery and kiryana stores until 10pm, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Fuel Conservation and Additional Austerity Measures, which reviewed ongoing policies aimed at reducing government spending and fuel consumption amid economic pressure and regional uncertainty.
Officials said the adjustment in shop timings under austerity measures Pakistan is intended to balance public convenience with energy-saving policies, allowing small retail stores to remain open for an additional hour.
The committee also recommended extending the broader austerity framework until June 30, continuing restrictions such as reduced fuel allowances for official vehicles, limitations on government travel, and partial grounding of official fleets.
During the meeting, exemptions requested by various ministries were reviewed, and final recommendations were approved. Authorities said only essential operational services, such as ambulances and public transport, remain exempt from restrictions.
In addition, the committee approved keeping consular attestation services open on Fridays in multiple cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, and Gujrat, to improve public access under the ongoing austerity measures Pakistan framework.
Officials emphasized that these steps aim to maintain fiscal discipline while ensuring essential public services are not disrupted during the extended austerity period.
