The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has officially withdrawn its Friday work-from-home policy, requiring all government employees to return to their offices. The revised decision will take effect from next week.
The provincial Administration Department has canceled the earlier notification that allowed government staff to work remotely every Friday. Under the new policy, all public offices across the province will follow their regular Friday working schedule.
Employees have been directed to report to their respective offices and maintain normal attendance. Government departments have also been instructed to implement the revised orders without delay.
Officials said the decision was approved during the 54th meeting of the Provincial Cabinet. Following the cabinet’s approval, the Chief Secretary directed all departments to enforce the updated policy immediately.
The work-from-home arrangement was introduced earlier this year as part of an austerity drive. The measure aimed to reduce fuel consumption during a period of rising energy concerns linked to regional tensions following the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
On March 27, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Local Government Department announced a 100% work-from-home plan for Fridays. The temporary arrangement was intended to save fuel and lower government operating costs.
Before introducing the full Friday remote work system, the provincial cabinet had approved a 50% work-from-home policy for employees in government departments. The decision formed part of a broader fuel conservation and responsible governance initiative.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Information and Public Relations, Shafi Jan, had outlined several measures under the initiative. These steps were designed to reduce unnecessary government spending while promoting efficient use of public resources.
The earlier measures included holding all official meetings through virtual platforms. Departments were also instructed to reduce fuel allowances for official vehicles by 25%.
In addition, the government planned to lower overall fuel consumption of official vehicles by 50%. These steps were introduced to support financial discipline and reduce operational expenses.
Police, rescue services, and security agencies were exempted from the fuel-saving measures. These departments continued normal operations because of their essential public service responsibilities.
The broader initiative also sought to reduce VIP protocol, limit the use of official helicopters, and avoid unnecessary government events and official dinners. Officials said these efforts were part of a wider plan to encourage responsible public spending.
With the latest decision, government employees will now return to their workplaces every Friday. Authorities believe normal office attendance will help maintain administrative efficiency while continuing other cost-saving efforts where possible.
The updated policy marks the end of the temporary remote working arrangement introduced under the province’s austerity measures. Government departments have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the revised directives.
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