KARACHI: In a move to promote austerity and conserve fuel, the Sindh government has announced a four-day workweek for all offices of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), Under this new schedule, KMC offices will operate from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays through Sundays designated as non-working days.
Emergency departments such as Municipal Services, Health, Fire Brigade, and City Wardens will continue their operations without interruption. Likewise, essential service departments will maintain their routine functioning to meet public needs.
All department heads have been instructed to strictly enforce the new notification. The provincial government’s measures are part of broader efforts to reduce government expenditure amid ongoing regional tensions.
Previously, Sindh announced austerity policies including a spring vacation for schools and work-from-home arrangements for government offices on Fridays. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon confirmed that schools will enjoy spring break from March 16 to 31, with colleges and universities shifting to online classes. However, he clarified that exams would proceed as scheduled.
Memon emphasized that government functions would not halt on Fridays; instead, officials will work remotely from home. “Monday to Thursday — work as usual. On Friday, work from home,” he stated.
The government has also launched a fuel conservation campaign, reducing official vehicle fuel allowances by 50%, saving approximately Rs. 960 million. Additionally, ministers have agreed to forgo their salaries entirely from April to June.Further austerity measures include cutting unnecessary expenses, such as furniture and stationery procurement, by 20%, which is projected to save around Rs. 12 billion. The government will also impose a ban on purchasing new vehicles and non-essential items, allowing exceptions only for ambulances and law enforcement vehicles.
Foreign travel restrictions have been tightened, with officials required to travel in economy class, and business class travel will be prohibited. The cabinet has also suggested that security detail for some officials, including former ministers and committee members, be reduced or withdrawn to reallocate police resources for public use.“The security protocols for individuals with no genuine security threats will be withdrawn,” Memon explained, stressing that security would remain in place for those with legitimate needs.
The cabinet has ordered a halt to unnecessary government spending, including Iftar parties and events at five-star hotels, opting instead for government venues. No minister will attend Iftar gatherings on government expenses, and charitable events will be scaled back.
Memon also announced that the Chief Minister’s official aircraft will remain grounded during this period, clarifying that it was purchased by the previous administration. The savings generated from these austerity measures will be directed toward public welfare initiatives.
He concluded by saying that the government’s priority is to shield the public from the impact of rising fuel prices, especially amid the ongoing global fuel crisis linked to the US-Israel conflict on Iran. This move aligns with similar austerity steps announced at the federal level to reduce fuel consumption.
