Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik to review the situation arising from the ongoing war in Middle East.
She discussed with ministers the possible impact of war on petroleum supplies.
The participants reviewed the supply, demand and available reserves of petroleum products in Punjab. They also discussed measures to maintain balance between demand and supply of petroleum products.
The meeting agreed on adopting a fuel conservation policy to maintain equilibrium in petroleum demand and supply. The chief minister emphasised the need to ensure uninterrupted availability of diesel for agricultural use.
Instructions:
Maryam Nawaz directed the district administration to continuously monitor the supply of petroleum products. She ordered a strict crackdown against hoarding. She also instructed the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority and the Transport Department to closely monitor the situation and take action where necessary.
The chief minister said the public should not have to stand in long queues at petrol pumps. She directed that no sale of petroleum products above the officially notified prices would be allowed anywhere in the province.
Maryam said the entire nation must demonstrate resilience to face the emerging challenges. She added that timely decisions are essential to safeguard economic stability.
During the meeting, officials also briefed participants on the reserves of petrol, diesel, LNG and other fuels, noting that immediate steps to conserve fuel and ensure prudent consumption were necessary in view of the global crisis.
Maryam Nawaz Message on International Women’s Day:
Meanwhile, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif paid tribute to women in Punjab and around the world in her special message.
She said, “I am not only the first female Chief Minister of Punjab, but I am also the voice of every woman who has been suppressed.” She added that the daughters of Punjab are no longer weak; they are now a strong arm of the state and builders of the nation rather than victims.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that women in Punjab are being empowered in every sphere—from education, security and healthcare to leadership and policymaking. She emphasised that women are no longer just statistics but are being transformed into policymakers, protectors and thinkers.
The chief minister stated that under her leadership no one would dare cast an evil eye on any daughter of Punjab. She declared that the daughters of Punjab are her “red line.” And there will be no compromise on their dignity and protection.
Maryam further said that women in Punjab are being encouraged not only to dream but also to turn those dreams into reality. She highlighted that widowed women will no longer remain alone, as the government is introducing the “Rehmat Card” to support them.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif noted that initiatives such as Wi-Fi facilities, laptops, e-bikes. And the “Honhaar Scholarship Programme” have been ensured for women. For their protection, foolproof measures such as panic buttons have been introduced.
Women Virtual Police Station:
She also mentioned that the first Women Virtual Police Station. She said it has been established in Punjab. And working round the clock to ensure women’s safety. She expressed pride that women have been inducted for the first time into the Border Military Police.
The chief minister said the government is fulfilling its promise of providing housing. House are being provided under the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” programme for women. They are for women who previously had no shelter. The health sector across Punjab has also been upgraded for the benefit of women and their children.
She added that women are being empowered economically through the “Asaan Karobar” initiative, employment opportunities, paid internships and training programmes.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif also highlighted that the Pink Games are promoting the talent of Punjab’s daughters at the international level. She wishes to see every daughter of Punjab in a position where she is independent and not dependent on anyone.
