Punjab Assembly Announces Major Austerity Measures To Cut Costs

LAHORE: (Web Desk) – Malik Ahmad Khan announced major austerity measures at the Punjab Assembly Secretariat in Lahore, following nationwide cost-cutting initiatives led by Shehbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz. The move is aimed at reducing government expenses and promoting financial discipline within the provincial legislature.

As part of the initiative, the Speaker declared that he would not receive his salary, government fuel allowance, or other official perks. The step has been described by officials as a symbolic and historic gesture intended to demonstrate solidarity with national austerity efforts.

The plan also includes a 25 percent reduction in salaries and allowances for all members of the Punjab Assembly for the next two months. In addition, around 70 percent of government vehicles assigned to the assembly will remain grounded, with only 30 percent allowed for essential official duties. The use of protocol vehicles and escort squads has been completely prohibited.

Administrative changes will also affect the assembly’s working schedule. Assembly sessions will now take place before sunset, while most standing committee meetings will be conducted through online platforms. The total number of committee meetings will also be limited to the minimum required.

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The secretariat offices will remain closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with routine operations carried out only on days when assembly sessions are held.

Under new office timing guidelines, working hours during Ramadan will be from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, while after Ramadan the schedule will shift to 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Authorities have also ordered a 70 percent reduction in electricity consumption by switching off unnecessary lights and equipment.

The assembly secretariat will adopt paperless operations, and all non-essential purchases have been banned immediately. New government vehicles will not be acquired until June 2026, while official dinners and iftar events have also been prohibited except when hosting foreign delegations.

Significant changes have also been introduced in staffing arrangements. About 80 percent of secretariat employees will now work remotely through virtual platforms, though they may be asked to report to the office with one hour’s notice if required. Employees working remotely will not receive honorary or session-based allowances.

Officials stated that the new measures could be reviewed and adjusted during future assembly sessions, but emphasized that the initiative reflects a firm commitment to eliminating unnecessary spending and promoting efficiency in government operations.