The federal government has called off the Pakistan Day parade and associated events planned for March 23, in line with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's austerity and fuel-conservation plan.
The nation celebrates Pakistan Day every year on March 23 to commemorate the adoption of the Lahore Resolution on the same day in 1940, which called for the creation of an independent sovereign state for the Muslims of the sub-continent.
The historic event took place at Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore, marking a significant development in the achievement of a separate country.
In a statement on Tuesday, the PM Office said that the decision has been taken in light of the ongoing Gulf oil crisis and the resulting austerity measures announced by the government.
The day will be commemorated with dignity and reverence through a simple flag-hoisting ceremony at appropriate levels.
"The measure aims to ensure that the resilience and unwavering commitment of the nation to the ideals of Pakistan Day remain aligned with the broader austerity framework," read the communique.
Ministries, divisions, and departments have been advised to mark the occasion in "a solemn and respectful manner", ensuring that the essence of the day is preserved despite the scaled-down celebrations.
Earlier this month, PM Shehbaz announced a wide-ranging austerity plan after the government raised petrol and diesel prices by 20%, citing rising global fuel costs and supply chain disruptions caused by ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.
In an address to the nation on March 9, the premier announced that both the federal and provincial governments would adopt austerity and simplicity to reduce expenditures and conserve energy during the challenging economic situation.
The measures included cutting government expenditures, reducing the working week to four days, and reducing non-essential movement.
Separately, PM Shehbaz today chaired a high-level meeting to review implementation of fuel conservation and austerity measures.
During the meeting, the prime minister directed the petroleum minister to further enhance efforts to improve Pakistan’s petroleum import supply chain, read a statement issued by the PM Office.
He stressed that all relevant institutions should remain prepared for emergency measures until the situation improved.
The meeting was apprised that implementation of the prime minister's directives was being ensured.
The meeting was further informed that the entire situation was being closely monitored and records of petroleum products were being maintained to immediately identify any irregularity.
— With additional input from APP
