PM Shehbaz announces hybrid duty: Govt officers to work three days oOnline

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced that all government officers will follow a hybrid duty schedule, attending offices four days a week and conducting online meetings for the remaining three days. The move comes amid rising global oil prices and ongoing economic pressures.

Addressing the nation, PM Shehbaz said the global price of oil has surged past $100 per barrel, warning that prolonged escalation could worsen the economic situation. “When conflicts arise in the region, energy prices are directly affected,” he noted.

He emphasised that the government was taking all possible steps to maintain economic stability. Highlighting recent challenges, he said Pakistan had come close to default, but the government, setting aside political differences, prioritised the welfare of the people.

The Prime Minister praised citizens for their patience and support, noting that inflation had declined, the rupee remained stable, and electricity prices had decreased. “We will do our best to ensure that the burden on the people remains minimal,” he added.

Among the austerity measures announced:

60 per cent of government vehicles will be banned from use for two months.

Parliamentarians’ salaries will be cut by 50 per cent, and two days’ salary of BS-20 officials earning over Rs300,000 will be redirected to public welfare.

Government department expenses will be reduced by 20 per cent.

Procurement of new furniture and non-essential items will be banned.

Official visits abroad will be restricted to the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and Governors.

Online meetings will be preferred, and conferences will be held only in government institutions for two months.

50 per cent of officials will work from offices, while the other 50 per cent work online.

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) will implement online classes for all educational institutions immediately for two months.

Citizens are urged to maintain discipline, tolerance, and austerity measures to support the government in this critical period.

PM Shehbaz concluded by saying these measures are necessary to navigate the current challenges and safeguard both the economy and the welfare of the people.