ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday announced a multi-billion package involving relief for labour and underprivileged class, business community and industries and farmers besides lowering fuel prices in the country amid shutdown in various parts of the country out of coronavirus fear that has already claimed seven lives.
Briefing the media, the premier talked about immediate measures taken by the government to deal with coronavirus crisis in the country. “Chaos is more dangerous than coronavirus if we take any decision in haste it will have dire impact on the society,” he said.
He said the option of lockdown was first discussed after the National Security Committee (NSC) meeting. “I opposed the complete lockdown which is curfew,” he added.
Complete shutdown will disrupt the supply of food items and medical equipment, said the premier. “This is not a T-20 match and this crisis may continue for six or seven months,” he further said.
Outlining the major points of the package, the prime minister said:
1. Labour – A sum of Rs200 billion has been earmarked for labourers. We will also discuss with the provinces and businesses to accommodate the labourers so they are not rendered jobless.
2. Export and industry – We will give them Rs100bn worth of tax refunds — which are usually delayed and given — so they may spend this on their labour as well. Interest payments have also been deferred.
3. Small and medium industries – Rs100bn have been set aside for these industries and their interest payments deferred as well. They will be able to make use of concessional loans as well, with low interest rates. Farmers will also be able to enjoy lower input costs.
4. Low-income families – A sum of Rs150bn has been set aside for families most impacted, spread across the next four months. They will be given Rs3,000 monthly. Provinces will be asked to join in and assist the federal government.
5. Expansion of Panah Gah – In the wake of the pandemic, there has been a rush on existing shelters so their numbers and capabilities need to be expanded. The government will work to enforce measures so that people are screened before being let in.
6. Utility stores – To ensure consist availability of goods, the government has set aside Rs50bn. The government will also budget for wheat procurement worth Rs280bn, so the farmers can also earn and the village areas do not face a financial crunch.
7. Petrol and diesel – Petrol, diesel, kerosene and light diesel will see their prices slashed by Rs15 “which will result in an impact on the government of Rs75bn”.
8. Electricity and gas – Seventy five per cent of the population are said to use 300 units or less of electricity. These households will be able to pay their bills with a deferred payment plan, over the next three months. Similarly, 81% of gas consumers incur a bill of Rs2,000 per month. They will also be able to pay in instalments over the next three months.
9. Medical workers, equipment – A sum of Rs50bn has been set aside for the purchase of equipment and all necessary facilitation of medical workers who are at the forefront of the fight against the virus.
10. Food items – Taxes on these will either be abolished or reduced.
The prime minister also said that a special sum of Rs100bn has been kept for the express purpose of use in an emergency to counter the after effects of the lockdowns.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will also be granted Rs25bn to procure kits, equipment, and other items from other countries.
“In addition, a separate package is being prepared for the construction industry, the likes of which Pakistan has never before seen,” said the premier.
“Construction is a sector which provides employment as well as facilitates other industries and aids in wealth creation.”
