Lahore: The Punjab government has taken a major decision to close educational institutions across the province, keeping in mind the current regional situation. The government has announced that all schools, colleges and universities in Punjab will remain closed from March 10 to March 31.
According to the provincial government, this decision has been taken in view of the extraordinary situation arising in the region and the resulting economic difficulties in order to provide convenience to the people and reduce unnecessary movement.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved several important measures after reviewing the situation. According to the government, online classes will be organized to prevent students from being affected despite the closure of educational institutions. During this time, exams will be held as per their pre-determined schedule.
The government has also taken several administrative decisions to reduce the potential impact of the petroleum crisis. Under these measures, the government fuel facility for provincial ministers has been temporarily closed. In addition, the allowance of petrol and diesel for government officials’ vehicles has been reduced by 50% with immediate effect.
Similarly, a ban has been imposed on additional protocol vehicles accompanying ministers and senior government officials. According to the new guidelines, only one vehicle will accompany ministers or senior officials only for security reasons.
The government has also introduced a new policy in government offices. Under this, most employees will be provided with the facility of work from home, while only essential staff will be present in the offices. The aim of this measure is to reduce the movement of citizens and reduce fuel consumption.
The provincial government has also made it clear that government services will not be completely shut down. For the convenience of citizens, e-business services and services under the “Maryam Ki Dastak” program will continue. The use of online meetings and teleconferences will be increased for conducting government affairs.
On the other hand, the government has also banned external events held at the official level. In addition, the Horse and Cattle Show to be held in Lahore has also been postponed.
The Punjab Chief Minister has also issued instructions to establish District Petroleum Monitoring Committees in each district to make the monitoring of petroleum products more effective. Along with this, the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has been given the task of developing a track and trace system to monitor the supply of petroleum products.
Representatives of the district administration, police and other relevant institutions will be part of the team developing this system so that the delivery and use of petroleum products can be effectively monitored.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz says that the aim of the work-from-home policy is only to limit unnecessary movement, while government work will continue as usual.
She has also advised the private sector to adopt the work-from-home policy, avoid unnecessary events and call only essential staff to offices.
The government has also directed strict monitoring of transport fares in all districts. Strict legal action will be taken against those who charge excessive fares from citizens.
The Chief Minister appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary purchases and hoarding and to show responsibility in view of the situation.
