Balochistan Government Approves Historic Austerity Package: 800 Posts Abolished, Three-Day Workweek, Wedding Guest Limits

Quetta: Under the leadership of Mir Sarfraz Bugti, the Balochistan Cabinet has approved a historic austerity package aimed at reducing government expenditures and conserving resources. The special cabinet meeting included the participation of the Governor of Balochistan, the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, and parliamentary leaders of allied parties.

According to the decisions taken, the austerity measures begin with the Chief Minister Secretariat, where approximately 800 non-essential positions have been abolished. A comprehensive policy will also be implemented to reduce fuel consumption and cut overall government expenses.

Provincial ministers, advisors, and parliamentary secretaries will forego two months’ salaries, while the salaries of provincial assembly members will be reduced by 25%. Senior officials in Grade 20 and above will voluntarily contribute two days’ salary. However, employees in the health and education sectors are exempt from these deductions.

The cabinet also decided that most government meetings will now be conducted via video link. Official dinners are prohibited except for foreign delegations, and prior approval will be mandatory for seminars and training programs. A four-day workweek will be introduced in government offices, with 50% of staff permitted to work from home. A similar policy is being recommended for the private sector.

On the education front, all provincial institutions will observe spring holidays until March 23, 2026, while examinations will continue as scheduled. Social events such as weddings will be limited to 200 guests, and only a single dish will be served. On highways, vehicle speed limits will be set between 65 and 80 km/h.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti emphasized that the government is setting an example during difficult economic times and that no resources should be wasted. He stated that all departments must strictly implement the policy, as the saved funds will now be redirected toward public welfare.