Syed Ali Shah:Â
Quetta: Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti, has unveiled a series of public relief measures, austerity policies, and a major transition towards electric vehicles, aiming to ease the burden on citizens amid the ongoing economic crisis.
Addressing a press conference in Quetta on Friday, the Chief Minister said Pakistan is going through a severe financial crunch, urging both the government and the public to adopt a culture of austerity and responsible spending.
Public Relief and Subsidies
Bugti said that while the federal government is providing subsidies on goods and public transport, the Balochistan government is also taking steps to support its people. He announced that vehicle registration will remain free for 15 days.
In a key move for the agriculture sector, farmers will receive subsidies on petrol and diesel, particularly for the use of threshing machines during the harvesting season.
Free Green Bus Service
To make travel more affordable, the Chief Minister announced that the Green Bus Service in Quetta and Turbat will be free for a limited time, offering relief to daily commuters affected by rising fuel prices.
Strict Monitoring of Fuel Prices
Bugti directed authorities to strictly monitor petroleum prices across the province. He instructed Deputy Commissioners and police officials to ensure implementation, while clarifying that checking illegal foreign goods is the responsibility of customs authorities, not the police.
Market Timings Revised
As part of energy-saving measures, markets will close at 8 PM starting Monday after consultation with traders. However, marriage halls and hotels will remain open until 10 PM. The Chief Minister clarified that this is not a lockdown but a step towards reducing unnecessary energy use.
Government Cost-Cutting Measures
Highlighting internal reforms, Bugti said the government has introduced work-from-home policies in the Finance Department and reduced staff at the Chief Minister Secretariat. Fuel usage for official vehicles has also been cut.
He added that around 400 employees from the CM House have been sent back to the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD). So far, the austerity campaign has saved approximately Rs1.5 billion.
The Chief Minister also urged citizens to report misuse of official vehicles after office hours by recording videos and sharing them with authorities.
Shift to Electric Vehicles
In a major policy shift, Bugti announced that petrol and diesel vehicles in the Chief Minister Secretariat will be auctioned and replaced with electric vehicles. Gradually, other government departments—except emergency services—will also transition to EVs.
Public Response and Context
Bugti appreciated the leadership of the Prime Minister and the Army Chief for steering the country through difficult times. He also pointed out that regional conflicts in neighboring countries are impacting Pakistan’s economy.
The measures are being seen as an important step towards reducing government spending while providing relief to citizens. While many have welcomed the initiative, some critics believe more comprehensive steps are needed.
Overall, the public response has been largely positive, with expectations that these measures will bring real relief to the people of Balochistan, especially low-income communities.
