The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Department has issued new instructions directing government offices to adopt fuel conservation measures in view of possible disruptions in petroleum supplies.
According to a notification issued by the department, the steps have been introduced in light of the ongoing global crisis and anticipated disruptions in the supply chain of petroleum products, which could create a critical situation at the local level.
Under the directives, all attached departments, formations, and subordinate offices have been instructed to ensure economical use of petroleum products. Fuel consumption must be limited to essential official duties, emergency response activities, and unavoidable field operations.
The notification states that outstation visits, non-essential inspections, ceremonial visits, and unnecessary official travel have been restricted with immediate effect.
Government vehicles are to be used strictly for official purposes. The department has also encouraged pooling of vehicles where feasible and has directed offices to avoid the use of multiple vehicles for the same official activity.
Officials have further been instructed to conduct internal and inter-departmental meetings through virtual platforms where possible in order to reduce travel and fuel consumption.
Administrative offices have been directed to properly monitor and record fuel allocations and vehicle usage to ensure compliance with the new instructions.
The notification also instructs heads of departments to sensitize officers and staff about austerity in the use of government resources under the prevailing circumstances.
At the same time, the Finance Department emphasized that the ongoing budget cycle and preparations for the upcoming financial year must continue without disruption despite the implementation of these conservation measures.
