KARACHI: President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry Muhammad Ikram Rajput has
welcomed the 14-point energy conservation and austerity measures announced by Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif, describing the initiative as a timely and responsible step toward ensuring efficient
energy utilization and strengthening the country’s economic stability.
Rajput said that such measures are particularly important in light of the prevailing regional and global
circumstances. He noted that ongoing tensions involving Iran and the broader Middle East and Gulf
region have created uncertainty in the global energy market, which could have implications for
Pakistan’s economy. Under such conditions, he said, the government’s decision to promote energy
conservation, reduce public expenditure, and adopt austerity policies is both necessary and
commendable.
President KATI stated that steps such as reducing the use of official vehicles, restricting unnecessary
foreign visits by government officials, and encouraging work-from-home arrangements would not only
help save energy but also set an example of prudent management of national resources. He added that
these measures reflect the government’s commitment to promoting efficiency and responsible
governance during challenging economic times.
Rajput also offered several recommendations to the government, emphasizing that uninterrupted
supply of electricity and gas to industries must be ensured so that export-oriented sectors can continue
operating smoothly. He said that industries should be made active partners in the national energy
conservation drive and that incentives should be provided to encourage the adoption of modern,
energy-efficient technologies in the industrial sector.
He further stressed the need for a nationwide awareness campaign to educate both industries and the
general public about the importance of energy conservation. According to him, effective public
awareness and behavioral change are essential to achieving long-term reductions in energy
consumption.
The KATI president said that the Prime Minister’s clear policy announcements align with the long-
standing demands of the business community. He urged the government to implement the proposed
measures not only temporarily but on a permanent basis, noting that sustained austerity and energy
efficiency policies would significantly reduce government expenditures and help accelerate economic
growth.
Rajput concluded by stating that the business and industrial community stands ready to extend full
cooperation with the government in efforts aimed at stabilizing the national economy. He reaffirmed
that the private sector will continue to support initiatives that serve the national interest and contribute
to Pakistan’s economic resilience and sustainable development.
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