Senate ends fuel conservation, austerity measures after fuel prices ease

The Senate Secretariat in Pakistan has officially terminated all "Fuel Conservation and Additional Austerity Measures," effective immediately. The move signals a return to a regular five-day work week with full staff strength starting June 22. This rollback comes as a direct consequence of a recent US-Iran deal, which has led to a subsequent reduction in global fuel prices.

These austerity measures were initially implemented on March 12, 2026, to curb non-essential spending amidst soaring global oil prices and to meet International Monetary Fund fiscal targets. A notification signed by Deputy Secretary HRM-I Qasim Omer confirmed the withdrawal of these measures, which were introduced with the approval of the Senate chairman. The secretariat will now operate Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm on non-session days, and until the conclusion of sessions when the Senate is active.

The easing of pressure on Pakistan's import bill, attributed to lower crude prices following diplomatic developments between Washington and Tehran, has enabled government ministries and departments to restore normal operations. This decision aligns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's approval to terminate similar measures previously notified by the Cabinet Division. However, specific market timings established on June 3 and 10 will remain in effect.