Govt Plans to Shut Down Utility Stores Across Pakistan Due to Financial Constraints
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to close down utility stores nationwide, citing severe financial constraints, according to Saif Anjum, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production. The decision was disclosed during a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee, where proposals for the closures were presented.
Saif Anjum informed the committee that the government is struggling with a lack of funds, making it unsustainable to continue operating the utility stores. The proposals, drafted by the Rightsizing Committee, recommend the closure of utility stores along with other entities as part of broader measures to reduce governmental expenses.
The closure plan is set to be reviewed and approved by the Cabinet Secretary before being forwarded to the cabinet for final approval. Upon receiving the green light, a timeline will be established for the phased shutdown of utility stores across Pakistan.
The Rightsizing Committee has also suggested the closure of additional entities to further alleviate the financial burden on the government. These proposals will also require cabinet approval.
The decision to shut down utility stores is part of the government’s broader strategy to address financial limitations by cutting down on operational costs.
