The Balochistan government has announced the closure of all educational institutions across the province until March 23 due to the prevailing situation in the region.
According to a notification issued in Quetta, all public and private schools in Balochistan will remain closed from tomorrow until March 23. Authorities stated that the decision was taken in view of the current conditions in the region.
The notification further stated that the Secretary Colleges Balochistan has also directed that all colleges and universities across the province will remain closed until March 23.
However, the provincial education department clarified that the school enrollment campaign and the digital school census will continue according to the previously announced schedule despite the closure of institutions.
Prime Minister Announces Energy-Saving Measures
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced several measures during his address to the nation aimed at reducing government expenditures and conserving fuel.
The Prime Minister stated that all schools will be given two weeks of holidays starting at the end of this week, while higher education institutions will begin online classes during this period.
He further announced that:
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Fuel consumption of government vehicles will be reduced by 50% for two months.
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Ambulances and public transport buses will be exempt from these restrictions.
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60% of government vehicles will remain off the roads for two months as part of austerity measures.
Government Announces Austerity Measures
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced several steps to reduce government spending.
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Cabinet members, ministers, advisers, and special assistants will forgo their salaries.
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Members of Parliament will face a 25% salary reduction.
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Government officers in Grade 20 and above earning over Rs300,000 will have two days’ salary deducted.
The Prime Minister said that the deducted amount will be utilized for public relief efforts.
Additional measures include:
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A 20% reduction in non-salary expenditures across government departments.
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A ban on the purchase of vehicles, furniture, air conditioners, and other equipment in government offices.
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A ban on foreign visits by federal and provincial ministers, advisers, special assistants, and government officials.
The Prime Minister added that Chief Ministers and Governors will also not undertake foreign visits, except in cases of extreme national interest.
