Senate Chairman launches deep austerity drive, targets Rs700-750 million savings

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday launched a sweeping austerity drive for the Senate Secretariat, projecting savings of Rs700-750 million by cutting over 50 percent of the remaining budget for the current fiscal year.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting at the secretariat, where Gilani stressed that fiscal discipline must start at the top and that public office is a “sacred trust” demanding transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management.

Under the measures, foreign travel is completely banned, fuel consumption for official vehicles is reduced by 50 percent, 60 percent of official vehicles are grounded, non-essential procurements are prohibited, and salary deductions or contributions are enforced in line with government policy. Rotation-based pick-and-drop services have been introduced to minimise fuel use, and all future purchases will require approval from a dedicated Senate Austerity Committee.

The austerity measures align with nationwide government initiatives to cope with the global oil crisis triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran. Last week, similar steps were implemented in the National Assembly Secretariat, including four-day workweeks, 50 percent cuts in fuel allowances, 25 percent salary reductions for MNAs, and remote working for 80 percent of staff.

Gilani’s announcement follows reports of a luxury vehicle purchase for the Senate chairperson, reportedly costing Rs90 million. The secretariat’s rebuttal confirmed the purchase but left several questions unanswered. The austerity drive signals the chairman’s intent to enforce strict financial discipline and ensure efficiency across the Senate Secretariat amid challenging economic conditions.