PM Bans High Octane Fuel For Government Vehicles

Shehbaz Sharif has directed an immediate prohibition on the use of high-octane fuel in government-operated vehicles as part of enhanced austerity measures, following a substantial increase in the petroleum levy from Rs100 to Rs300 per litre. The initiative is aimed at reducing public expenditure and reallocating fiscal savings toward broader public relief, as per an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.

Under the revised directive, all government departments are barred from utilising high-octane fuel at the expense of the state. In instances where the use of such fuel is considered unavoidable, the financial burden will be borne personally by the concerned officials.

The Prime Minister has instructed strict adherence to this policy across all federal ministries, attached departments, autonomous authorities, and subordinate offices. He has further mandated the establishment of a robust monitoring and compliance mechanism, with clear directives for disciplinary action in the event of any breach.

This policy measure forms part of a broader framework aimed at ensuring prudent management of public resources and eliminating non-essential government expenditures.

It is pertinent to note that the government has already implemented measures including a 50% reduction in fuel consumption for official vehicles, along with the grounding of approximately 60% of the government fleet as part of its austerity programme.

The official statement further highlighted that the fiscal savings generated through these initiatives are being channelled toward maintaining the affordability of petroleum products for the general public.

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the importance of strict compliance with austerity policies, emphasising that curtailing unnecessary expenditure remains critical under prevailing economic conditions. He added that the latest directive will contribute to more efficient allocation of public funds and improved financial discipline within government operations.