The federal government has decided to shut down utility stores across Pakistan due to financial constraints, according to Saif Anjum, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Production.
Anjum informed the Senate Standing Committee about the decision, which comes as part of a broader plan to cut expenses.
The proposal, drafted by the rightsizing committee, suggests closing utility stores and other entities to address budget shortfalls.
With the government struggling financially, the closure plan will be reviewed by the cabinet secretary before being presented to the full cabinet for approval.
A timeline for the shutdown will be set once the plan is approved.
The decision is part of a larger five-year privatization program, which includes the privatization of several state-owned entities like Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and various electricity supply companies. The program aims to reduce financial strain and streamline government operations.